Answers before you act

Self-custody means retaining control of recovery credentials. Verify the actual product architecture before relying on custody claims.

Checking on-chain balances or broadcasting a transaction generally needs connectivity; offline backup does not.

Write it down in order and keep it offline, private and protected from loss or damage.

Private keys sign transactions; a recovery phrase often restores keys. Both are sensitive.

Verify your backup, use a trusted app on the new phone, then check accounts and networks.

USDT exists on multiple chains. Check the network and token contract details.

Review the chain, full address, asset, amount and fees. Consider a small test when uncertain.

Inspect the domain and provenance; avoid unsolicited ad and chat links.

Pause whenever a page asks for your phrase, pressures you to sign or requests unexpected approvals.