What is a device check?

Device checks ensure that your hardware wallet is accessible and working properly.

Device checks are optional 180-day check-ins for each key uploaded to your account. They verify that your hardware wallet is still working and contains the correct key. By default, we send email notifications encouraging you to perform device checks to help ensure you can always move your bitcoin without needing to replace any equipment. 

If you skip a device check,

  • You can still deposit and withdraw as usual.
  • Your account and funds are not at risk.
  • Unchained can never access your bitcoin, nor can Unchained ever prevent you from accessing your bitcoin.

For your security, we do not allow new vaults or loans to be created with unchecked keys until a device check has been completed. You can disable device checks if your keys are geographically distributed or you prefer not to be notified.

Note: If you have multiple keys with the same hardware wallet and seed phrase, you must complete device checks for each key. If you only complete a device check for one key, you may continue to receive notifications about uncompleted device checks. This can be applicable if you've used your keys in multiple accounts, like a personal and IRA account.

Ready for a device check? Select a guide for step-by-step instructions.