> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.binkbtc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.binkbtc.com/security/exporting-your-private-keys.md).
# Exporting Your Private Keys
### Overview
Bink uses Privy's embedded wallet technology to provide you with true self-custody of your Bitcoin and digital assets. While your wallet is seamlessly integrated into the Bink app, you have the ability to export your private keys at any time, giving you complete control and the option to use your wallet in other applications.
This guide explains what private key export means, why you might want to do it, and how to safely export your keys.
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**How to export your private keys?**\
Jump straight to the section on "How to export your private keys" by clicking [here](#how-to-export-your-private-keys).
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***
### What Are Private Keys?
#### Understanding Private Keys
Your private key is the cryptographic key that controls access to your Bitcoin and other assets on the blockchain. Think of it as the master password to your funds:
**What Private Keys Do:**
* Prove ownership of your assets on the blockchain
* Allow you to sign transactions and move funds
* Enable you to access your wallet from any compatible application
* Provide ultimate control over your cryptocurrency
**Key Principle:** "Not your keys, not your coins." With Bink, you have true ownership because your private keys are generated and controlled by you, not by Bink.
**Security Model:**
* Any two shares can reconstruct your private key
* Keys are only reconstructed temporarily in secure hardware when needed
* No single entity (including Bink or Privy) can access your keys alone
* Your keys never exist in complete form except when you explicitly export them
***
### Why Export Your Private Keys?
**Use Your Wallet Elsewhere:**
* Import your wallet into MetaMask, Trust Wallet, or other applications
* Access your funds from multiple platforms
* Use your wallet with DeFi protocols outside of Bink
**Enhanced Security:**
* Store keys in a hardware wallet for maximum security
* Create offline backups for long-term storage
* Implement your own custom security solution
**Complete Control:**
* Maintain access even if Bink or Privy services become unavailable
* True financial sovereignty and self-custody
* Peace of mind knowing you can always access your funds
**Migration:**
* Move to a different wallet provider
* Consolidate multiple wallets
* Transfer to cold storage for large holdings
#### Consider Before Exporting
**Increased Responsibility:** Once you export your private keys, you become solely responsible for their security. There's no "forgot password" option—if you lose your exported keys, your funds are gone forever.
**Security Risks:**
* Exported keys are vulnerable if not stored properly
* Digital storage of keys can be compromised
* Physical backups can be lost, damaged, or stolen
**Not Always Necessary:** For most users, Bink's embedded wallet with cloud backup and recovery options provides the right balance of security and convenience without needing to export keys.
***
### How to Export Your Private Keys
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**Note**
Direct private key export is not currently available within the Bink app. You can export your keys through Privy's web interface.
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#### Step-by-Step Process
**1. Access Privy Dashboard**
* Open your web browser
* Navigate to
* This is Privy's official wallet management dashboard
**2. Log In to Your Account**
* Click on **Sign In**
* Use the same authentication method you use for Bink
* Complete any two-factor authentication if enabled
**3. Navigate to Bink**
* Once logged in, you'll see a list of apps using your Privy wallet
* Locate and click on **Bink** from the list of connected apps
* This shows your Bink-connected wallet
**4. Export Your Keys**
* Click on **Export Keys** or **Export Wallet**
* You may be prompted to re-authenticate for security
* Confirm that you understand the risks and responsibilities
**5. Save Your Private Key**
* Your private key will be displayed as a long hexadecimal string
* Or you may receive a recovery phrase (12-24 words)
* **CRITICAL:** This is shown only once—there is no way to retrieve it again
**6. Secure Your Keys Immediately**
* Write down your private key or recovery phrase on paper
* Verify you've written it correctly
* Store it securely following best practices (see below)
* Never leave the keys visible on screen
***
### Securing Your Exported Keys
#### DO: Safe Storage Methods
**Physical Paper Backup:**
* Write on high-quality, acid-free paper using archival ink
* Create multiple copies
* Store in different secure locations (home safe, bank deposit box)
* Consider a fireproof and waterproof safe
* Use a metal backup plate for extreme durability (e.g., Cryptosteel, Billfodl)
**Environmental Protection:**
* Keep away from moisture and humidity
* Protect from fire and extreme temperatures
* Avoid direct sunlight (can fade ink)
* Consider laminating (but be aware of moisture risks)
**Access Control:**
* Only you should know the exact location
* Consider splitting storage locations (different copies in different places)
* Inform trusted family members of backup locations in case of emergency
* Use a safe or locked storage that only you can access
#### DO NOT: Dangerous Storage Methods
**Never Store Digitally:**
* ✗ Do not save in cloud storage (iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox)
* ✗ Do not save in password managers
* ✗ Do not save in note-taking apps (Evernote, OneNote)
* ✗ Do not email to yourself
* ✗ Do not send via messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal)
* ✗ Do not save on your computer or phone
**Never Create Digital Copies:**
* ✗ Do not take screenshots
* ✗ Do not photograph with your phone
* ✗ Do not scan and save digitally
* ✗ Do not print on networked printers
* ✗ Do not type into any digital device
**Never Share:**
* ✗ Do not share with anyone, including family (share location of backup instead)
* ✗ Do not share with customer support (Bink or Privy will never ask)
* ✗ Do not share with "tech support" callers or emailers
* ✗ Do not post online, even partially
***
### Using Your Exported Keys
#### Importing to Other Wallets
Once you have your private key or recovery phrase, you can import it into compatible wallets:
**Compatible Wallets:**
* MetaMask (browser extension and mobile)
* Trust Wallet
* MyEtherWallet
* Hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor)
* Any EVM-compatible wallet
**Import Process:** Most wallets have an "Import Wallet" or "Restore Wallet" option:
1. Select "Import" or "Restore"
2. Choose "Private Key" or "Recovery Phrase"
3. Enter your exported key or phrase
4. Set a password for the new wallet
5. Your Bink wallet and assets will appear
#### Understanding EVM Compatibility
Your Bink wallet is an EVM-compatible wallet, meaning:
* It works on Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains (Botanix, Polygon, Arbitrum, etc.)
* The same private key controls your wallet across all these networks
* You can use it with any EVM-based DeFi application
* It's compatible with standard Ethereum wallet tools
***
### Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: Do I need to export my private keys?** A: No. For most users, Bink's embedded wallet with cloud backup provides sufficient security and convenience. Only export if you have a specific need to use your wallet outside Bink or want to implement additional security measures.
**Q: Will exporting my keys affect my Bink account?** A: No. Exporting creates a copy of your keys. Your Bink wallet continues to work normally. However, if you use the exported keys elsewhere and send funds from another wallet, those changes will reflect in Bink since it's the same wallet.
**Q: Can I change my private key if I think it's compromised?** A: No. Private keys cannot be changed. If compromised, you must create a new wallet with a new private key and transfer your funds to it immediately.
**Q: What's the difference between a private key and a recovery phrase?** A: Both provide access to your wallet. A recovery phrase (seed phrase) is a human-readable list of 12-24 words that represents your private key. A raw private key is a long hexadecimal string. Both should be secured equally.
**Q: Can Bink or Privy access my wallet after I export my keys?** A: Bink and Privy never have access to your complete private keys, even before export. After export, you have a copy, but the security model remains the same—your wallet is still self-custodial.
**Q: What if I forget that I exported my keys?** A: Keep a record (separate from the keys themselves) that you've created backups and where they're stored. This helps you or trusted family members locate them if needed.
**Q: Can I re-export my keys if I lose my backup?** A: Yes. You can export your keys again at any time through the Privy dashboard, as long as you still have access to your Bink account.
