Topics Covered
What Is a Private Key?
How to Import a Wallet via Private Key
Important Security Considerations
FAQs
⚠️ Important — Mobile App Only: Private key import is currently supported only in the Trust Wallet mobile app. It is not available in the browser extension. Private key import supports single-chain wallets only — multi-coin wallet imports via private key are not supported.
1. What Is a Private Key?
A private key is a unique cryptographic code paired with a public key (your wallet's receiving address — the string of characters you share with others to receive crypto). Both the private key and public key are derived from your recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase or secret phrase — a set of 12 or 24 words that represents your wallet).
The private key gives you full control over the associated public address — meaning you can send crypto, sign transactions, and access any funds linked to that address. In short: if you hold the private key, you control the wallet.
⚠️ Critical: If your private key is exposed or compromised, your wallet is completely vulnerable. Unlike a recovery phrase, which protects all wallets under one backup, a compromised private key directly exposes the specific wallet it controls. If you suspect your private key has been compromised, move your funds to a new wallet immediately.
2. How to Import a Wallet via Private Key
The steps below show how to import an Ethereum (ETH) wallet as an example. The process is the same for other supported single-chain networks — just select the correct network in Step 5.
If you already have Trust Wallet set up:
Open Trust Wallet and tap Settings (⚙ gear icon).
Tap Wallets.
Tap the + icon in the top-right corner.
Select Add existing wallet.
Select the network you want to import — for example, Ethereum.
Tap Private key.
Paste your private key into the field. Optionally, edit the Wallet name.
Tap Restore wallet to complete the import.
If you are opening Trust Wallet for the first time:
Open Trust Wallet and tap Get started.
Select Add existing wallet.
Select the network you want to import — for example, Ethereum.
Tap Private key.
Paste your private key into the field. Optionally, edit the Wallet name.
Tap Restore wallet to complete the import.
📋 Note: Always make sure you select the correct network before pasting your private key. Selecting the wrong network will result in importing the wrong wallet.
3. Important Security Considerations
Never share your private key with anyone — not with Trust Wallet support, not with anyone claiming to help you. Anyone who has your private key has full control of your wallet.
Store your private key offline — written on paper and kept in a secure location. Do not store it in a cloud service, messaging app, email, or screenshot.
A compromised private key cannot be changed. Unlike a password, you cannot reset a private key. If your private key is exposed, the only safe action is to move your funds to a new wallet immediately.
Do not continue using a compromised wallet. If you suspect your private key or recovery phrase has been exposed, create a new wallet and transfer all funds before taking any other action.
4. FAQs
What is the difference between a private key and a public key?
A public key is like a bank account number — you share it with others so they can send you crypto. A private key is like your password — it gives you full control over the associated wallet and funds. Your public key can be shared freely; your private key must never be shared with anyone.
Can I share my private key with anyone?
Sharing your private key with anyone gives that person complete control over your wallet and all funds in it. Never share your private key — not with friends, exchanges, or anyone claiming to be Trust Wallet support.
What happens if someone gets my private key?
If someone obtains your private key, that person can access your wallet, send your funds, and make transactions without your consent. There is no way to reverse transactions made this way. Move your funds to a new wallet immediately if you believe your private key has been compromised.
What should I do if I lose my private key?
If you lose your private key and do not have your recovery phrase, you will permanently lose access to the associated wallet. There is no way to recover a lost private key — not even Trust Wallet can restore it. Always store both your private key and your recovery phrase securely in separate offline locations.