> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.leather.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.leather.io/learn/recover-crypto-wallet.md).

# How to Find and Recover Lost Crypto Wallets

How self-custody wallets get lost, what can recover them, and how to restore a Leather wallet.

When you lose access to a wallet, your funds stay on the blockchain. What you lost is the key to move them. Whether you can get it back depends on what you still have.

## How wallets get lost

* **Device lost, stolen or broken:** the wallet app or hardware wallet is gone.
* **Software failure:** a failed update or corrupted data locks you out.
* **Forgotten password:** you cannot unlock the app.
* **Lost or incomplete Secret Key:** the backup words are missing or partly wrong.
* **Theft:** someone got your Secret Key and moved the funds. Funds moved by someone else cannot be recovered by a wallet.

## Recover with your Secret Key

Your Secret Key (recovery phrase, seed phrase) restores your wallet on any device, in Leather or another compatible wallet. It also replaces a forgotten password: restore the wallet and set a new one.

In Leather, see [Add or Restore Accounts](/get-started/add-or-restore-accounts.md) and [Create a New Wallet](/get-started/create-new-wallet.md).

## Without your Secret Key

* If the Leather extension is still installed but you forgot the password, you may be able to recover the Secret Key from the extension's stored data. See [Recover Secret Key with Backup Data](/get-started/recover-secret-key.md).
* If you can still unlock the wallet, write the Secret Key down now. See [View Secret Key](/get-started/view-secret-key.md).
* Data-recovery specialists can sometimes read a damaged device. Choose them carefully.

Without the Secret Key or the wallet's data, nobody can restore a self-custody wallet, including Leather.

## Beware of recovery scams

Scammers offer to recover lost wallets, often through social media or email. Never give anyone your Secret Key or any part of it. Leather support never asks for it.

## Prevent it

* Write the Secret Key on paper or metal and keep copies in separate safe places.
* Check that you can read every word, in order.
* For larger amounts, consider a hardware wallet or a multisig setup. See [Multi-Signature Wallets](/wallet-and-security/multisig-wallet.md).

See [Secure Your Secret Key](/wallet-and-security/secure-secret-key.md).