Introduction
Trust Wallet is a non‑custodial mobile wallet that gives you direct control of private keys and access to Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, many EVM chains, tokens, NFTs and Decentralized Finance (DeFi) applications. Because Trust Wallet is non‑custodial, it does not hold funds — you do. That means set‑up, backup and security are critical. This guide walks you through every step from downloading the official app to advanced tips for interacting with dApps safely.
1. Download & official sources
Only download Trust Wallet from official sources to avoid malicious copies. Official download links include the project site and app stores. Official pages: trustwallet.com and the download center: Trust Wallet Downloads. On mobile, prefer the Apple App Store or Google Play Store entries published by Trust Wallet.
Tip: check the app publisher name and number of installs in the store, and avoid third‑party APKs. Bookmark the official site to reach the correct download pages easily.
2. First‑time setup & seed phrase
When you create a new wallet, Trust Wallet generates a recovery phrase (a sequence of 12 or 24 words) that restores your wallet if the device is lost or the app is reinstalled. Write this seed phrase down offline — do not take a photo or store it in cloud services. The app will ask you to confirm the phrase to ensure you recorded it correctly. If you already have a recovery phrase, use the "Import" option to restore an existing wallet.
Your seed phrase is the master key to all accounts derived from that wallet. Anyone with the phrase has complete access. Treat it like cash: keep it offline, in a safe place, preferably using a fire/water‑resistant metal backup for long‑term storage.
3. Security & backup best practices
Follow these practical steps to minimize risk:
- Write the recovery phrase by hand on paper and store it in a secure place; consider a metal backup solution for resilience.
- Enable device‑level security (strong passcode, biometrics) and keep the OS updated.
- Do not enter your recovery phrase into websites or apps other than the official Trust Wallet restore flow.
- Use a separate device for high‑value transactions when feasible, or use hardware wallet integrations for maximum key security.
- Beware of phishing: bookmark trustwallet.com and avoid following login links from emails unless you verified the sender.
Trust Wallet will never ask you for your private keys or seed phrase over email or chat. Any request for the seed is a direct scam.
4. Supported assets & multi‑chain management
Trust Wallet supports a wide range of blockchains and token standards, including native coins (ETH, BNB, BTC) and ERC‑20 / BEP‑20 tokens. The app provides one unified interface where you can add multiple tokens and switch networks. For the latest supported assets and token lists, consult the official resources: Trust Wallet and the support docs.
5. Interacting with dApps safely
Trust Wallet features an in‑app browser for connecting to decentralized applications (dApps). When you connect your wallet to a dApp, the dApp can request signature authorization to perform transactions — always verify requests carefully. Before approving, check the destination addresses, amounts, and whether the action is expected. For DeFi and token approvals, consider using minimal allowances and revoking permissions after use through token approval tools.
Advanced users often use a dedicated wallet for high‑risk dApps to limit exposure and keep their main holdings offline or in cold storage.
6. Sending, receiving & transaction verification
To receive, generate a fresh address in Trust Wallet for the chosen network and verify the address before sharing. When sending, copy and paste addresses and double‑check them. Beware of clipboard‑hijack malware that silently replaces addresses — confirm the first and last few characters of the address or use QR codes when possible. For large transfers, send a small test amount first.
7. Privacy considerations
Crypto transactions are public on their respective blockchains. If privacy is a concern, explore privacy‑focused coins or extra measures such as mixing services, privacy wallets, or using rollups and layer‑2 solutions that support transaction obfuscation. Review Trust Wallet’s privacy page for details on data collection and telemetry.
8. Backup & restore
If you must restore Trust Wallet on a new device, use the recovery phrase during the import flow. Only restore to trusted devices and avoid exposing the seed to networked machines when possible. If you use multiple accounts (multiple derivation paths), ensure you import the correct seed that contains the addresses with funds.
9. Troubleshooting common issues
Common problems include synchronization delays, missing tokens, or failed transactions. Steps to resolve:
- Update the app to the latest version and restart it.
- Ensure the network (e.g., Ethereum) is not congested — high gas can delay confirmations.
- If tokens are not visible, add the token’s contract address manually via the token manager.
- Consult official support channels for persistent issues: Trust Wallet Support.
10. Official resources & links
Keep these official links handy for downloads, support, documentation and community help: