# **Switching Phones? Here's How to Move Your Coinbase Wallet Safely**
Upgrading to a new phone can be straightforward for crypto users. This guide shows you how to transfer your Coinbase Wallet to a new device while keeping your digital assets safe.
## **Before You Start: Important Prep**
### **What You'll Need**
- Your **12- or 24-word recovery phrase** (from when you set up your wallet)
- Both old and new smartphones (if you can access the old one)
- A stable internet connection
- About 15-20 minutes of uninterrupted time
### **Security Checklist**
✅ Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
✅ Do the transfer in a private, safe spot
✅ Turn off clipboard history on your new device
✅ Make sure both devices are charged
## **Step-by-Step Transfer Process**
### **Phase 1: Prep on Your Old Device**
*(Skip if you can't access the old device)*
1. **Check your recovery phrase**
- Open Coinbase Wallet → Settings → Recovery Phrase
- Confirm you’ve got the full, correct phrase
2. **Wrap up any pending transactions**
- Send or receive any outstanding transfers
- Jot down important app connections
3. **Secure your old device**
- Log out of wallet apps
- Consider resetting it after the transfer
### **Phase 2: Setting Up Your New Device**
1. **Download the official app**
- iOS: [App Store Link]
- Android: [Google Play Link]
- Make sure the developer is Coinbase, Inc.
2. **Start wallet restoration**
- Open the app → I already have a wallet
- Click Restore with recovery phrase
3. **Enter your seed phrase**
- Type the words in the exact order
- Double-check each word before moving on
- Don't take screenshots or copy-paste your phrase
4. **Set up new security**
- Create a new 6-digit PIN
- Turn on biometric authentication
- Set up transaction confirmations
### **Phase 3: Post-Transfer Check**
1. **Check your balances**
- Make sure all cryptocurrencies show up
- Ensure token amounts match what you expect
2. **Transaction history**
- Give it 10-15 minutes to sync fully
- Make sure recent transactions are visible
3. **Test connections**
- Reconnect to important apps
- Send a small test transaction
## **Troubleshooting Common Problems**
| Problem | Solution |
|---------|----------|
| Missing tokens | Add them manually via Import Tokens |
| Wrong balance | Check a blockchain explorer for your address |
| Apps not connecting | Clear cache or reinstall the wallet app |
| Biometric issues | Use the PIN temporarily and reset settings |
## **Security Tips for Your New Setup**
1. **Consider a hardware wallet**
- You can connect Ledger or Trezor for extra security
- Make sure your seed phrase works with it
2. **Add extra protections**
- Turn on transaction whitelisting
- Set spending limits
- Use a separate browser for crypto stuff
3. **Backup your info**
- Store your seed phrase in a fireproof safe
- Think about an encrypted digital backup (only if you know the risks)
- Share access instructions with trusted people
## **FAQs: Moving Your Coinbase Wallet Safely**
### **1. Can I use my wallet on both devices at the same time?**
> While it’s possible, it’s not a good idea due to potential issues. Always log out of old devices.
### **2. What if I lose my new phone during setup?**
> Your funds are safe as long as your recovery phrase isn’t compromised. Just start over on another device.
### **3. Will my staked assets move automatically?**
> Yes, staked assets stay on the blockchain. You’ll regain access, but might need to reconnect to staking services.
### **4. How can I keep my new phone crypto-safe?**
> - Turn on full device encryption
> - Install good security software
> - Use a separate user profile for crypto, if possible
> - Turn off unnecessary connectivity options
### **5. Can I change my seed phrase during the transfer?**
> Not directly. You’d have to create a new wallet and manually move all your assets.
### **6. What about my wallet's transaction history?**
> All on-chain transactions will show up after restoration, but app-specific records may take a bit to sync.
### **7. Should I be concerned about SIM swap attacks?**
> While Coinbase Wallet isn't reliant on SMS, enable SIM lock with your carrier and consider using a hardware security key.
## **Pro Tips for Users**
1. **Multi-device strategy**
- Have a backup device ready
- Use different wallets for different risk levels
2. **Monitor transactions**
- Set up alerts for your addresses
- Use portfolio trackers for full oversight
3. **Regular security checks**
- Quarterly reviews of all connected services
- Yearly checks of backup access
- Biannual reviews of security practices
## **When to Get Professional Help**
Reach out to crypto security experts if:
- You think your seed phrase was compromised
- You spot unauthorized transactions
- You’re dealing with large or complex assets
**Remember:** Coinbase support can't access your wallet or recover funds. It’s all on you to keep it secure.
## **Final Transfer Checklist**
✔ Recovery phrase verified and safely stored
✔ Old device logged out or reset
✔ New device security set up
✔ All balances and transactions checked
✔ Important app connections reestablished
✔ Test transaction done successfully
By following this guide, you’ve transferred your Coinbase Wallet smoothly and boosted your crypto security. Remember, staying vigilant is your best security measure in decentralized finance.
**Need clarification on anything?** The crypto community can help – feel free to ask your questions below!