An extended public key is public account information that can be used to derive receiving addresses for a specific wallet account.
In the BitBoxApp, you can find the extended public key in the account details window. You may need it when setting up a watch-only wallet or when importing account information into compatible external wallet software.
An extended public key does not contain private keys and cannot be used to spend your funds. However, it can reveal addresses and transactions for the related account, so you should treat it as privacy-sensitive information.
Privacy note
An extended public key cannot be used to steal your funds, but it can reveal addresses, balances, and transactions for the related account. Only share it with wallet software or services you trust.
Before you begin
To view your extended public key in the BitBoxApp, you need:
- the BitBoxApp
- the wallet account you want to check
- your BitBox02, if the wallet was not remembered in the BitBoxApp
Remembered wallet
If your wallet was remembered in the BitBoxApp, you may be able to view account details without connecting your BitBox02. If the wallet was not remembered, connect and unlock your BitBox02 first.
How to find your extended public key in the BitBoxApp
- Open the BitBoxApp.
- Select the wallet you want to use.
- In the left sidebar, select the account for which you want to view the extended public key.
- Click Account info.
- Click View account details.
- Find the Extended public key section.
- Copy the extended public key or scan the QR code.
Account scope
Each account in the BitBoxApp has its own account details. Make sure you copy the extended public key from the correct account and account format.
How to verify the extended public key on your BitBox02
At the moment, only the extended public key can be verified directly on the BitBox02 from the account details window. Verifying the extended public key also helps you confirm the account details shown in the BitBoxApp.
Before using the extended public key for an important setup, verify it on your BitBox02.
- Open the account details window in the BitBoxApp.
- Click Verify on device.
- Check the information shown on your BitBox02.
- Confirm the information only if it matches what you expect.
Verification reminder
Verify the extended public key on your BitBox02 when possible. The BitBox02 screen is trusted and helps you confirm sensitive account information independently from your computer.
When should you use the extended public key?
Use the extended public key only when another wallet, service, or tool specifically asks for an xpub, ypub, zpub, or similar extended public key.
Common use cases include:
- setting up a watch-only wallet
- monitoring account balances and transactions
- importing account information into compatible external wallet software
- connecting accounting, tax, or portfolio tools
Descriptor compatibility
If the external wallet supports wallet descriptors, use the descriptor instead of the extended public key. Descriptors include more complete account information and reduce the risk of importing the wrong address type.
FAQ
Can someone steal my funds with my extended public key?
No. An extended public key does not contain private keys and cannot be used to spend funds.
Can someone see my transactions with my extended public key?
Yes. Someone with access to the extended public key may be able to monitor addresses, balances, and transactions for the related account.
Is an extended public key the same as recovery words?
No. Recovery words can restore and spend your wallet. An extended public key can only derive public account information and cannot spend funds.
Recovery words warning
Never enter your recovery words into a computer, smartphone, website, or third-party wallet tool. Recovery words can restore and spend your wallet. An extended public key cannot.
Does one extended public key reveal all my accounts?
Usually no. An extended public key belongs to a specific account and account format. However, it can reveal addresses and activity for that account.
Should I use the extended public key or the descriptor?
Use the descriptor whenever the external wallet supports it. Use the extended public key only if the external wallet specifically asks for it.
Why can I see account details without connecting my BitBox02?
If your wallet was remembered in the BitBoxApp, the app can show public account information such as account details without requiring the BitBox02 to be connected. To verify sensitive account information, connect your BitBox02 and use Verify on device.