Managing Mnemonics and PrivateKeys
This guide applies to wallets created through Tatum's v3 REST API, where a single mnemonic or private key controls full access to the wallet. If your wallet was created with the Wallet SDK (MPC, powered by Portal's enclave), this guide does not apply. That model splits access into a client share and a Tatum share rather than a single mnemonic.
One of the fundamental aspects of ensuring your assets' security in the Legacy v3 REST API is managing your mnemonics and private keys.
Steps for Managing Mnemonics and Private Keys
Step 1: No Storage by Tatum
In the Legacy v3 REST API, Tatum does not store mnemonics and or private keys. This means you are solely responsible for keeping them safe and ensuring you can retrieve access to them. If you lose them, Tatum cannot help you. This applies to all Legacy v3 REST API wallets, universally and by design.
Step 2: Confidentiality
Always keep your mnemonics and private keys confidential and secure. Sharing this information can lead to the loss of your funds.
Step 3: Avoid Sharing
Never share your mnemonics or private keys with anyone. This includes friends, family, and Tatum staff.
Step 4: Use Cold Storage
For long-term storage of significant amounts of assets, use cold storage solutions. These are offline wallets that provide an additional layer of security.
The closest option to a self-hosted cold wallet that Tatum provides for Legacy v3 REST API wallets is KMS. Find more in the following article.
Step 5: Regular Checks
Periodically check the security of your storage methods to ensure they remain robust against potential threats.
Discharge of Responsibility
You must keep your PrivateKey(s) and Mnemonics/seed phrases confidential and secure at all times. Sharing this information with anyone can result in serious consequences such as the loss of your funds. Your private keys and mnemonics give full access to your funds, and once they are shared, you lose control over your assets.
For Legacy v3 REST API wallets, Tatum does not store mnemonics and or private keys. This means you are solely responsible for keeping them safe and ensuring you can retrieve access to them. If you lose them, Tatum cannot help you. This applies to all Legacy v3 REST API wallets, universally and by design.
No legitimate Tatum staff member will ever ask for your private keys or mnemonics. If you are asked for this information, it is most likely a scam attempt and you should immediately report it. Your security is of the utmost importance, and we highly encourage you to never share your private keys or mnemonics with anyone, under any circumstances.
AttentionThe responsibility of keeping your mnemonics and private keys secure rests solely with you, the user.
WarningContacting Support or any other Tatum staff member about lost Mnemonics and or PrivateKeys won't provide a positive outcome. Tatum cannot help you.