This guide shows you how to securely display and verify your recovery words on your BitBox02.
You can use this process to:
- Verify an existing backup
- Create a new written backup
⚠️ Important: Your recovery words
Your recovery words are the master key to your crypto.
- Anyone with access to them can control your funds
- Never create a digital copy (photo, file, password manager)
Golden rule:
Never enter your recovery words into any website, app, or device other than your BitBox02.
Shift Crypto will never ask for your recovery words.
Before you start
- The BitBoxApp must be installed on your computer
- Your BitBox02 must already be set up
- You must know your device password
- If creating a backup, prepare a pen and paper (or recovery card)
Display your recovery words
The process consists of three phases:
- Open the recovery screen
- Write down your recovery words
- Verify your backup
1. Open the recovery words screen (BitBoxApp)
- Open the BitBoxApp.
- Connect your BitBox02.
- Unlock your BitBox02 using your device password.
- Click Settings in the sidebar.
- Select Manage device.
- Scroll to the Backups section.
- Click Show recovery words.
- Read the security warning.
- Click Continue.
- Confirm the action on your BitBox02.
- Enter your device password again on the BitBox02.
2. View and write down your recovery words (BitBox02)
Your recovery words will now be displayed one by one on the BitBox02 screen.
- Review the first recovery word shown on the screen.
- Write the word down exactly as displayed.
- Use the touch sensors to navigate to the next word
- Repeat this for all recovery words
(Depending on your wallet, this will be 12 or 24 words.)
You can move forward and backward at any time using the left and right arrows at the bottom of the screen to review each word.
Make sure:
- The order is correct
- The spelling is correct
- No word is missing
Once you reach the final word:
- Tap Continue on the BitBox02.
3. Verify your recovery words (BitBox02)
You will now confirm that your backup is correct.
- Look at the number shown at the top of the screen (e.g. 01).
- Review the five word options displayed.
- Use the touch sensors to navigate between options.
- Select the correct word.
- Confirm by tapping Select
After confirming:
- Proceed to the next word (e.g. 02).
- Repeat the process for all words.
If you select the wrong word:
- The device will show “Incorrect word – Try again”
- Select the correct word to continue
Once all words are confirmed:
- The verification process is complete.
💡 Note
This verification process is different from restoring a wallet.
When restoring:
- You must enter each word manually
- No word suggestions are shown
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why would I need to see my recovery words (seed)?
You may need to:
- Verify that an existing backup is correct
- Create a written backup in addition to your microSD card backup
Is it safe to display the words on the screen?
Yes.
Your recovery words are only shown on the BitBox02 screen, which is a trusted environment.
They are never displayed on your computer or phone, protecting them from malware or screen recording.
Can I use this process to see my words for the first time?
Yes.
During setup, the recovery words are stored on the microSD card and not shown on-screen.
This process allows you to view and back them up manually.
What if my written backup doesn't match the words on the device?
The words shown on the BitBox02 are always correct.
If your written backup differs:
- It contains an error
- You must create a new, correct backup immediately