Account Access FAQ
Common questions about logging in, syncing, recovering, and accessing your ZelCore account across devices.
Account Types and Login
What's the difference between a legacy account and a seed phrase account?
Answer:
ZelCore has two account types with different login methods:
Legacy Account (Old System):
- Uses username and password to log in
- Created before 2022
- Centralized account system
- Being phased out
- Still works but migration recommended
Seed Phrase Account (Modern System):
- Uses 12 or 24-word seed phrase
- Industry-standard BIP44 protocol
- No username/password
- Fully decentralized
- Recommended for all users
How to tell which you have:
- If you log in with username/password → Legacy account
- If you have a 12/24-word seed phrase → Modern account
Related:
Should I migrate from legacy to seed phrase?
Answer:
Yes, migration is strongly recommended. Here's why:
Benefits of migrating:
- Better security with BIP44 standard
- Full ownership without reliance on ZelCore servers
- Works with other BIP44-compatible wallets
- Access to latest features and updates
- Future-proof as legacy accounts are being deprecated
When to migrate:
- As soon as you have 30-60 minutes of free time
- When you can carefully follow the migration process
- After updating ZelCore to the latest version
Legacy account status:
- Still functional now
- No immediate deadline
- But will be phased out eventually
- Earlier migration is better
Related:
How do I know if I have a seed phrase?
Answer:
If you have a modern account:
- You wrote down 12 or 24 words when creating your wallet
- These words are in a specific order
- You don't use a username/password to log in
If you're unsure:
-
Check your records:
- Look for a written recovery phrase
- 12 or 24 common English words
- Numbered in sequence
-
Check in ZelCore (if logged in):
- Go to Settings → Security → Show Seed Phrase
- Requires authentication
- If option doesn't exist, you may have legacy account
-
Based on login method:
- If you enter username/password → No seed phrase (legacy account)
- If you enter PIN/biometric per device → You have a seed phrase
If you have a legacy account without seed phrase:
- You need to migrate to generate a seed phrase
- See Migration Guide
Related:
Sync vs Register - New Device Setup
What's the difference between "Sync" and "Register" on a new device?
Answer:
This is one of the most common sources of confusion. Understanding the difference is critical:
"Sync" or "Import Wallet":
- Use when: You already have a ZelCore account
- What it does: Gives you access to your EXISTING wallet
- You need: Your seed phrase or legacy credentials
- Result: You see your existing funds and transaction history
"Register" or "Create New Wallet":
- Use when: You're a brand new ZelCore user
- What it does: Creates a COMPLETELY NEW wallet
- You need: Nothing - generates new seed phrase
- Result: Empty wallet with new addresses
The confusion:
- "Sync" does NOT sync automatically
- You must provide your credentials
- Many users choose "Register" by mistake
- This creates a second empty wallet
Think of it like email:
- Sync = Log into existing email account
- Register = Create brand new email account
Related:
I chose "Register" instead of "Sync" and my balance is zero. What do I do?
Answer:
Don't panic - your funds are safe! This is a very common mistake. You created a new empty wallet instead of accessing your existing one.
Quick fix:
-
Close ZelCore completely
- Force quit the app
- Don't just minimize it
-
Reopen ZelCore
- Look for "Account Switcher" or "Manage Accounts"
- Or log out and return to welcome screen
-
Choose "Sync" or "Import Wallet" this time
- NOT "Register" or "Create New"
- Select "Import from Seed Phrase" or "Legacy Login"
-
Enter your credentials:
- For seed phrase accounts: Enter your 12/24 words
- For legacy accounts: Enter username and password
-
Your funds will appear
- Original wallet is unchanged
- Funds were always on the blockchain
- You just created a second empty wallet by accident
Optional:
- You can keep both wallets
- Use account switcher to manage multiple accounts
- Or ignore the empty wallet
Related:
What does "Sync" actually sync? Is it automatic?
Answer:
"Sync" is a misleading name - it's not automatic synchronization. Here's what it really means:
What "Sync" really does:
- It's actually "Import existing wallet to this device"
- Requires you to provide seed phrase or login credentials
- Downloads your wallet configuration to the new device
- Connects to blockchain nodes to fetch your balances
What "Sync" does NOT do:
- Does NOT automatically sync across devices
- Does NOT remember your credentials from other devices
- Does NOT transfer data from another device
- Does NOT backup your wallet automatically
Why the confusion:
- Many apps use "sync" to mean automatic cloud sync
- ZelCore's "sync" is really "import" or "restore"
- The naming causes widespread confusion
What actually syncs automatically:
- Transaction history (from blockchain)
- Balance updates (via Smartify)
- Asset lists (after initial sync)
What requires manual action:
- Initial setup on new device (must enter seed phrase)
- Account recovery (must have seed phrase)
- Cross-device access (must import on each device)
Related:
Accessing Account on New Device
How do I access my ZelCore account on a new phone/computer?
Answer:
Follow these steps carefully to access your existing account on a new device:
Step 1: Install ZelCore
- Download from zelcore.io (desktop) or app store (mobile)
- Install and open the app
Step 2: Choose the CORRECT option
- Select "Sync," "Import Wallet," or "Restore from Seed Phrase"
- DO NOT select "Register" or "Create New Wallet"
Step 3: Choose account type
For seed phrase accounts:
- Select "Import from Seed Phrase" or similar
- Enter all 12 or 24 words in exact order
- Verify spelling and order
- Continue
For legacy accounts:
- Look for "Legacy Account" or "Username/Password Login"
- May be under "Advanced" or "More Options"
- Enter your username and password
- Log in
Step 4: Set up device authentication
- Create PIN, password, or use biometric
- This is DEVICE-SPECIFIC
- Different from your seed phrase
Step 5: Wait for sync
- App will connect to blockchain nodes
- May take 1-3 minutes
- Run Smartify if balances don't appear immediately
Step 6: Verify
- Check that all assets appear
- Verify balances match expectations
- Test sending/receiving if needed
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Choosing "Create New" instead of "Import"
- ❌ Typing seed phrase with errors
- ❌ Using wrong word order
- ❌ Confusing device PIN with seed phrase
Related:
Do I need to sync my account every time I switch devices?
Answer:
You don't "sync" between devices - you import your wallet to each device independently.
How it works:
Initial setup on each device:
- Import wallet once per device using seed phrase
- Set up device-specific authentication
- After initial import, that device stays logged in
Subsequent use:
- Open ZelCore and authenticate (PIN/biometric)
- No need to re-enter seed phrase each time
- Balances update automatically via blockchain connection
Switching between devices:
- Each device maintains its own logged-in session
- No manual syncing needed
- Transactions appear on all devices (from blockchain)
- Settings may vary per device
When you need your seed phrase again:
- Setting up a brand new device
- Recovering after losing a device
- Reinstalling ZelCore
- Factory reset of device
Data that stays in sync automatically:
- Balances (from blockchain)
- Transactions (from blockchain)
- Assets (after initial setup)
Data that doesn't sync:
- Device-specific settings
- Local PIN/password
- Custom labels or notes (device-specific)
Related:
I lost my phone. How do I recover my account?
Answer:
If you have your seed phrase, recovery is straightforward. If not, recovery may be difficult or impossible.
If you HAVE your seed phrase:
Immediate steps:
- Get a new device (phone/computer)
- Install ZelCore
- Choose "Import Wallet" or "Sync"
- Enter your 12 or 24-word seed phrase
- Your wallet will be fully restored
Your funds are safe:
- Cryptocurrency is on the blockchain, not the device
- Seed phrase gives access to your funds
- All balances will appear after import
Additional security steps:
- Change any passwords if phone was stolen
- Enable D2FA on new device
- Review security settings
- Consider if anyone accessed your seed phrase
If you DON'T HAVE your seed phrase:
For seed phrase accounts:
- Recovery is impossible without the seed phrase
- No backdoor or recovery method exists
- Funds are permanently inaccessible
- This is why seed phrase backup is critical
For legacy accounts:
- Password recovery may be available
- Contact ZelCore support
- May require identity verification
- Not guaranteed but possible
Prevention for future:
- Write down seed phrase immediately
- Store in multiple secure locations
- Test recovery on different device
- Keep backup device with ZelCore installed
Related:
D2FA and Security
What is D2FA and how is it different from regular 2FA?
Answer:
D2FA stands for "Decentralized Two-Factor Authentication" - ZelCore's enhanced security feature.
How D2FA works:
- Uses distributed blockchain network for verification
- No centralized server stores your authentication data
- Requires your D2FA PIN for high-value transactions
- More secure than traditional SMS or app-based 2FA
Key differences from regular 2FA:
Traditional 2FA:
- Centralized servers (Google, SMS)
- Vulnerable to server hacks
- Can be intercepted (SMS)
- Requires internet connection to central server
ZelCore D2FA:
- Decentralized blockchain-based
- No central point of failure
- Cannot be intercepted
- Uses distributed node network
When D2FA is required:
- Large transaction amounts
- Changing security settings
- Withdrawing funds
- Can be configured in settings
Setting up D2FA:
- Go to Settings → Security
- Enable D2FA
- Create D2FA PIN (6-8 digits)
- Confirm PIN
- Backup PIN securely
Related:
I forgot my D2FA PIN. How do I reset it?
Answer:
You can reset your D2FA PIN using your seed phrase, but the process requires careful steps.
For seed phrase accounts:
-
Have your seed phrase ready:
- All 12 or 24 words
- In correct order
- Spelled correctly
-
Reset D2FA:
- Go to Settings → Security → D2FA
- Look for "Reset D2FA" or "Forgot PIN"
- May need to re-import wallet
-
Re-import method (if needed):
- Log out of ZelCore
- Choose "Import Wallet"
- Enter your seed phrase
- Set up new D2FA PIN during import
-
Set new PIN:
- Choose a memorable but secure PIN
- Write it down in secure location
- Don't use same PIN as device authentication
For legacy accounts:
- Contact ZelCore support
- May require identity verification
- Process may take 24-48 hours
Prevention:
- Write down D2FA PIN when you create it
- Store separately from seed phrase
- Don't use birthdates or obvious numbers
- Test D2FA after setting up
Security note:
- Anyone with your seed phrase can reset D2FA
- Keep seed phrase extremely secure
- D2FA adds security but seed phrase is ultimate key
Related:
D2FA keeps failing when I try to approve transactions. What's wrong?
Answer:
D2FA failures usually relate to connectivity, incorrect PIN, or sync issues.
Common causes and solutions:
1. Incorrect PIN:
- Verify you're entering the correct D2FA PIN
- D2FA PIN is different from device PIN
- Check for typos or caps lock
- Try resetting PIN if you're unsure
2. Internet connection issues:
- D2FA requires internet to communicate with blockchain nodes
- Check your connection is stable
- Try switching between WiFi and mobile data
- Disable VPN temporarily
3. App needs update:
- Update ZelCore to latest version
- Restart app after updating
- Try D2FA again
4. D2FA sync issues:
- Go to Settings → Smartify
- Run Smartify to refresh connections
- Try D2FA transaction again
5. Blockchain node problems:
- Specific blockchain nodes may be down
- Try changing backend server (Settings → Backend)
- Wait a few minutes and retry
6. Time sync issues (desktop):
- Computer clock must be accurate
- Set to automatic time sync
- Correct timezone
- D2FA uses timestamps for verification
Step-by-step troubleshooting:
- Verify internet connection
- Update ZelCore
- Run Smartify
- Verify D2FA PIN is correct
- Check device time is accurate
- Try different backend server
- Restart ZelCore
- Try transaction again
If still failing:
- Transaction amount may be below D2FA threshold
- Disable and re-enable D2FA
- Contact support with error messages
Related:
FluxID and Legacy Accounts
What is FluxID and do I need it?
Answer:
FluxID is your decentralized identity in the Flux ecosystem, integrated with ZelCore accounts.
What FluxID provides:
- Single sign-on for Flux ecosystem apps
- Decentralized authentication
- Access to Flux services and dApps
- Integration with ZelCore wallet
Modern FluxID (with seed phrase accounts):
- Created automatically with new seed phrase accounts
- Managed through your seed phrase
- Fully decentralized
- No separate credentials needed
FluxID Legacy (with old accounts):
- Tied to username/password accounts
- Centralized authentication
- Being phased out
- Migrate to modern FluxID recommended
Do you need FluxID:
- Yes, if you use Flux ecosystem services
- Yes, if you use Flux dApps
- No, if you only use ZelCore for basic wallet functions
- Automatically included with modern accounts
FluxID features:
- SSO (Single Sign-On) for Flux services
- Decentralized identity verification
- Integration with Flux nodes
- Access control for dApps
How to check your FluxID:
- Open ZelCore
- Go to Settings or Profile
- Look for "FluxID" section
- Shows your FluxID identifier
Related:
How do I migrate from FluxID Legacy to modern FluxID?
Answer:
FluxID migration happens automatically when you migrate from a legacy account to a seed phrase account.
Migration process:
Step 1: Migrate to seed phrase account
- Follow the Migration Guide
- This creates a modern seed phrase account
- Modern FluxID is created automatically
Step 2: FluxID is created
- No separate setup needed
- FluxID is linked to your seed phrase
- Inherits security from seed phrase account
Step 3: Update Flux services
- Log into Flux services with new FluxID
- Update any connected dApps
- May need to re-authenticate services
What happens to old FluxID Legacy:
- Remains accessible (for now)
- Being phased out
- Migrate services to new FluxID
- Eventually will be deprecated
Benefits of modern FluxID:
- Better security (decentralized)
- Integrated with seed phrase
- Access to latest Flux features
- Future-proof
Important notes:
- Can't migrate FluxID separately from account
- Must migrate entire account to seed phrase
- Both FluxIDs can coexist during transition
- Old FluxID will eventually be unsupported
Related:
Account Recovery and Errors
I can't log in to my legacy account. What should I try?
Answer:
Legacy account login issues usually involve credentials, account status, or app version.
Troubleshooting steps:
1. Verify credentials:
- Username is case-sensitive
- Password is case-sensitive
- Check for extra spaces
- Try variations you commonly use
2. Find legacy login option:
- May not be on main screen
- Look for "Advanced Options"
- Check for "Legacy Account" button
- May be under "More Login Options"
3. Update ZelCore:
- Download latest version from zelcore.io
- Legacy support may require recent version
- Install and restart
- Try logging in again
4. Password reset (if available):
- Look for "Forgot Password" link
- Follow password reset process
- Check email for reset link
- Create new password
5. Check account status:
- Verify account hasn't been locked
- Check email for notifications from ZelCore
- May need to contact support for unlocking
6. Clear app cache:
- Mobile: Settings → Apps → ZelCore → Clear Cache
- Desktop: Delete cache folders in data directory
- Restart ZelCore
- Try logging in
7. Network issues:
- Legacy accounts require server connection
- Check internet connection
- Try different network (WiFi vs mobile data)
- Disable VPN temporarily
If still unable to log in:
Contact ZelCore Support:
- Email: [email protected]
- Discord: discord.gg/runonflux
- Provide username (NOT password)
- Describe error messages
- Include ZelCore version
Prevention for future:
- Migrate to seed phrase account as soon as access is restored
- Seed phrase accounts don't have login issues
- Write down credentials in secure location
Related:
I entered my seed phrase but ZelCore says it's invalid. What's wrong?
Answer:
Seed phrase errors usually involve typos, wrong words, incorrect order, or wrong word count.
Common issues and solutions:
1. Word order is wrong:
- Words must be in EXACT order
- Word #1 must be first, word #12 must be last
- Write numbers next to each word
- Verify order matches original backup
2. Spelling errors:
- Check each word carefully
- BIP39 word list has specific valid words
- Common confusions: "world" vs "word", "through" vs "though"
- All lowercase usually
- No punctuation
3. Wrong number of words:
- Should be exactly 12 or 24 words
- Not 13, not 11
- Count carefully
- Verify against backup
4. Extra spaces:
- Only single space between words
- No spaces at beginning or end
- No double spaces
- Trim all whitespace
5. Wrong word list language:
- Most seed phrases are English
- Some wallets support other languages
- Try English first
- Check what language you used originally
6. Autocorrect interference:
- Disable autocorrect when entering
- Type manually, don't use voice
- Verify each word individually
- Use on-screen keyboard if available
Verification tips:
Check against BIP39 word list:
- Official word list: github.com/bitcoin/bips/blob/master/bip-0039/english.txt
- All words must be from this list
- Only 2048 valid words
- If word isn't on list, it's misspelled
Common misspellings:
- "wolf" vs "women"
- "abandon" vs "ability"
- "all" vs "always"
- "example" vs "expand"
Double-check your backup:
- Re-read original written phrase
- Look for smudged or unclear words
- Compare what you wrote to what you're typing
- Check if you accidentally skipped a word
Try import on different device:
- Sometimes app-specific issues
- Try desktop vs mobile
- Try different version of ZelCore
- Rules out device-specific problems
If seed phrase is definitely correct but still failing:
-
Try different import method:
- Some wallets have "advanced import"
- Try selecting BIP44 specifically
- May need to specify derivation path
-
Verify seed phrase elsewhere:
- Try importing in another BIP44 wallet (MetaMask, Trust Wallet)
- If works there, issue is ZelCore-specific
- If fails everywhere, seed phrase is wrong
-
Check for variant seed phrases:
- Some people write down multiple seed phrases
- Verify you're using correct one
- Check all backups you have
Last resort - if you're logged in elsewhere:
- Access account on device where still logged in
- Go to Settings → Security → Show Seed Phrase
- Write down correct phrase
- Compare to what you've been trying
Prevention:
- Write clearly when backing up
- Use printed templates
- Create multiple backups
- Verify seed phrase immediately after creating
- Test recovery before storing large amounts
Related:
I accidentally created a new account instead of accessing my old one. Can I switch?
Answer:
Yes, you can easily switch between accounts. Creating an extra account doesn't affect your original one.
How to access your original account:
Method 1: Account Switcher (Recommended)
-
Look for account menu:
- Top right corner or settings
- "Accounts," "Profiles," or "Switch Account"
- May be a profile icon
-
Add your original account:
- Select "Add Account" or "Import Account"
- Choose "Import from Seed Phrase" or "Legacy Login"
- Enter your original credentials
-
Switch between accounts:
- Use account switcher menu
- Select which account to view
- Both accounts remain accessible
Method 2: Log Out and Log In
-
Log out of current account:
- Settings → Log Out
- Or Account → Sign Out
-
Return to welcome screen:
- Choose "Sync" or "Import"
- Enter your original seed phrase or credentials
-
Access original account:
- Your funds will appear
- Original account is unchanged
Method 3: Delete and Reinstall (Not recommended)
- Delete ZelCore app
- Reinstall ZelCore
- Choose "Import" or "Sync"
- Enter original credentials
Your original account is safe:
- Creating new account doesn't affect old one
- Funds remain on blockchain
- Both accounts can coexist
- You can use both or ignore the new one
Going forward:
To use both accounts:
- Keep both imported
- Use account switcher to change between them
- Useful for separating funds
To use only original:
- Just ignore the new empty account
- Or remove it from account list if option exists
- Focus on your original account
Prevention next time:
- Remember: "Sync/Import" = existing account
- "Register/Create" = new account
- Read options carefully before selecting
Related:
Can I have multiple ZelCore accounts?
Answer:
Yes, ZelCore supports multiple accounts, and you can switch between them easily.
How to use multiple accounts:
Method 1: Multiple seed phrases
- Create or import multiple seed phrase accounts
- Each has its own 12/24-word phrase
- Use account switcher to change between them
- Each account is completely independent
Method 2: Multiple devices
- Use different accounts on different devices
- Device A: Account 1
- Device B: Account 2
- No need to switch
Method 3: Combination
- Import multiple accounts on one device
- Also keep separate accounts on different devices
- Maximum flexibility
Common use cases:
Personal vs Business:
- Separate account for business transactions
- Different account for personal crypto
- Clean separation for tax purposes
Security tiers:
- Hot wallet for daily use (small amounts)
- Cold wallet for storage (large amounts)
- Different seed phrases for each
Testing vs Production:
- Test account for experimenting
- Main account for actual funds
- Learn without risking main funds
Family accounts:
- Separate accounts for family members
- Each person has their own seed phrase
- Can all be on same device (with different profiles)
Managing multiple accounts:
Keep organized:
- Label accounts clearly ("Main," "Trading," "Savings")
- Use different device PINs if helpful
- Document which seed phrase goes with which account
Security considerations:
- Store each seed phrase separately
- Label seed phrase backups clearly
- Don't mix up seed phrases
- Each account is independent security-wise
Switching between accounts:
- Open account switcher (usually in settings or top menu)
- Select account to view
- All accounts stay logged in
- Quick switching without re-entering seed phrase
Limitations:
- Each account requires separate import on each device
- Settings don't sync between accounts
- Transaction history is per account
- Need to track multiple seed phrases
Related:
Common Error Messages
"Account not found" when trying to log in
Answer:
This error usually means incorrect credentials or account type mismatch.
For seed phrase accounts:
Possible causes:
-
Entering wrong seed phrase:
- Verify each word carefully
- Check word order
- Ensure correct spelling
-
Using wrong import method:
- May need to select "BIP44" specifically
- Try "Advanced Import" options
- Verify derivation path if available
-
Account on different network:
- Some wallets support testnet vs mainnet
- Ensure importing to correct network
- Usually mainnet for real funds
Solutions:
- Double-check seed phrase against backup
- Try import on different device
- Verify seed phrase works in another BIP44 wallet
- Contact support if persistent
For legacy accounts:
Possible causes:
-
Wrong username:
- Case-sensitive
- Check for typos
- Verify spacing
-
Account deprecated or migrated:
- May have been automatically migrated
- Check email for migration notices
- Try seed phrase import instead
-
Server issues:
- Legacy accounts require server connection
- Server may be temporarily down
- Wait and retry
Solutions:
- Verify username is exact
- Check for migration emails
- Update ZelCore to latest version
- Contact support for account status
Related:
"Cannot connect to server" errors when syncing
Answer:
Server connection errors prevent ZelCore from syncing your account data and balances.
Quick fixes:
1. Check internet connection:
- Verify you're online
- Test with browser or other app
- Try different network (WiFi vs mobile data)
- Restart router if needed
2. Update ZelCore:
- Download latest version
- Server endpoints may have changed
- Older versions may not work
3. Change backend server:
- Go to Settings → Backend or Proxy
- Select different server (try different region)
- Save and restart ZelCore
- Try syncing again
4. Disable VPN:
- VPNs can block blockchain node connections
- Disable temporarily
- Try syncing
- Re-enable after successful sync
5. Firewall/Antivirus:
- May be blocking ZelCore
- Add ZelCore to allowed applications
- Temporarily disable to test
- Re-enable after confirming that's the issue
6. Wait and retry:
- Servers may be temporarily down
- Wait 15-30 minutes
- Try again later
Advanced troubleshooting:
Check server status:
- Visit ZelCore Discord or Twitter
- Check for service announcements
- Other users may report issues
- Confirms if problem is widespread
Clear cache:
- Settings → Apps → ZelCore → Clear Cache (mobile)
- Delete cache folders (desktop)
- Restart ZelCore
- Try connecting again
Reinstall ZelCore:
- Uninstall app
- Reinstall latest version
- Import account again
- Should clear connection issues
If persistent:
- May be ISP-level blocking
- Try mobile hotspot
- Use different network entirely
- Contact support with details
Related:
"Migration required" message - what does this mean?
Answer:
This message indicates you have a legacy account that needs to be migrated to a modern seed phrase account.
What it means:
Your account type:
- You have a legacy username/password account
- Legacy accounts are being phased out
- Migration to seed phrase recommended
- Not an immediate emergency but important
Why you see this:
- ZelCore is updating account infrastructure
- Legacy system being deprecated
- Modern accounts have better security
- Encourages users to upgrade
What happens if you don't migrate:
Short term:
- Account continues working
- No immediate disruption
- Full access to funds
Long term:
- Future updates may not support legacy accounts
- New features may require modern accounts
- Eventually legacy system will be sunset
- Migration will become required
How to respond:
Option 1: Migrate now (recommended)
- Follow Migration Guide
- Takes 30-60 minutes
- One-time process
- Future-proofs your account
Option 2: Postpone
- Click "Later" or "Remind Me"
- Account continues working
- Reminder will appear again
- Migrate when you have time
Option 3: Ignore (not recommended)
- Message will keep appearing
- Eventually migration may be required
- Earlier migration is easier
Migration benefits:
- Better security (BIP44 standard)
- Full account ownership
- Works with other wallets
- Access to latest features
- No more migration warnings
What migration involves:
- Creating new seed phrase account
- Transferring funds to new account
- Securing new seed phrase
- See Migration Guide for details
Is it safe to migrate:
- Yes, well-documented process
- Funds remain secure throughout
- Many users have migrated successfully
- Take your time and follow guide
Related:
Best Practices
How should I securely store my seed phrase?
Answer:
Your seed phrase is the key to your funds. Proper storage is critical.
Best practices:
Physical storage:
- ✅ Write on paper with permanent pen
- ✅ Use metal backup plates for durability
- ✅ Store in fireproof/waterproof safe
- ✅ Create multiple copies in different secure locations
- ✅ Number each word clearly (1-12 or 1-24)
What NOT to do:
- ❌ Never store digitally (photos, files, cloud)
- ❌ Never share with anyone (including "support")
- ❌ Never enter on websites (except wallet import)
- ❌ Don't store with other important documents that could be stolen
- ❌ Don't store in obviously labeled containers ("Bitcoin seed")
Multiple copies strategy:
- Copy 1: Primary safe at home
- Copy 2: Safety deposit box at bank
- Copy 3: With trusted family member in sealed envelope
- Different physical locations protect against disaster
Advanced options:
Metal backup plates:
- Fire-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Long-lasting
- Available from crypto hardware vendors
Split storage (advanced):
- Split seed phrase into parts
- Store parts in different locations
- Requires combining to access funds
- More complex but more secure
Estate planning:
- Instructions for heirs
- Sealed envelope with lawyer
- Safe deposit box with trusted executor
- Document how to access funds
What to include with seed phrase:
- Date created
- "ZelCore seed phrase" label
- Recovery instructions for family
- DO NOT include account balances or values
Testing your backup:
- After creating wallet, import on different device
- Verify seed phrase works
- Then remove from test device
- Proves your backup is correct
Security reminders:
- Anyone with seed phrase controls your funds
- No recovery method if lost
- Store like you're storing gold bars
- Review storage location security annually
Related:
Should I use the same seed phrase on multiple devices?
Answer:
Yes, that's how it's designed to work. Your seed phrase gives access to your wallet on any device.
How it works:
One seed phrase, many devices:
- Import same seed phrase on phone, tablet, computer
- All devices access same wallet
- Same addresses, same balances
- Transactions appear on all devices
Device-specific settings:
- Each device has its own PIN/password
- Local settings don't sync
- Can have different security on each device
- One device compromised doesn't automatically compromise others
Security considerations:
Benefits of multiple devices:
- Backup if one device fails
- Convenience of access anywhere
- No single point of failure
Risks:
- Each device is a potential vulnerability
- If one device compromised, wallet at risk
- More devices = larger attack surface
- Lost/stolen device could expose funds
Best practices:
Secure each device:
- Strong device PIN/password
- Biometric authentication if available
- Device encryption enabled
- Keep devices updated
Limit active devices:
- Only import on devices you actively use
- Don't import on public/shared computers
- Remove wallet from devices you no longer use
Consider device trust levels:
High security devices (large amounts):
- Desktop at home
- Personal phone
- Well-secured devices
- Where you keep most funds
Convenience devices (small amounts):
- Mobile for daily use
- Keep minimal balances
- For routine transactions
Never import on:
- ❌ Public computers
- ❌ Work computers you don't own
- ❌ Shared family devices
- ❌ Devices you don't fully control
If device is lost/stolen:
Immediate actions:
-
Transfer funds to new wallet:
- Create new seed phrase on different device
- Transfer all crypto to new wallet
- Old wallet is now compromised
-
Don't reuse old seed phrase:
- Generate completely new seed phrase
- Old phrase may be compromised
- Start fresh for security
Recommended setup:
Most users:
- Primary device (phone or desktop)
- Backup device (kept secure at home)
- Both import same seed phrase
- Daily use on primary only
High-security users:
- Single device for large amounts
- Different wallet for daily use
- Limit exposure of main holdings
Related:
What should I do before getting a new phone or computer?
Answer:
Critical: Verify you have your seed phrase BEFORE replacing your device.
Essential pre-replacement checklist:
1. Verify seed phrase access:
- Open ZelCore on current device
- Go to Settings → Security → Show Seed Phrase
- Verify it matches your written backup
- If no backup, write it down NOW
- Test the phrase by importing on different device (optional but recommended)
2. Document your setup:
- List all assets you have
- Note any custom tokens
- Screenshot settings (not including sensitive info)
- Note any special configurations
3. Test recovery (recommended):
- Install ZelCore on a different device
- Import using seed phrase
- Verify all assets appear
- Then remove from test device
- Proves your backup works
4. Secure additional backups:
- Create second seed phrase copy
- Store in different location
- Update storage if needed
After getting new device:
Setup process:
- Install ZelCore on new device
- Choose "Sync" or "Import Wallet"
- Enter your seed phrase
- Set up device authentication
- Run Smartify
- Verify all assets appear
Old device handling:
Before wiping old device:
- Verify new device works completely
- Check all balances on new device
- Test sending/receiving on new device
- Keep old device functional for a week (backup)
When ready to wipe:
- Log out of ZelCore on old device
- Uninstall ZelCore
- Factory reset device
- Seed phrase remains safe (on paper)
What NOT to do:
- ❌ Don't wipe old device before setting up new one
- ❌ Don't assume seed phrase is backed up - verify
- ❌ Don't skip testing recovery
- ❌ Don't rush the process
Emergency scenarios:
Old device died/broken:
- Install ZelCore on new device
- Import using seed phrase
- Your funds are safe on blockchain
- Seed phrase is all you need
Lost/stolen device:
- Get new device
- Import with seed phrase
- Consider transferring to new wallet (new seed phrase)
- Old wallet may be compromised
Device upgrade timeline:
Week before:
- Verify seed phrase backup
- Test recovery if possible
- Document setup
Day of upgrade:
- Set up ZelCore on new device
- Verify everything works
- Keep old device active
Week after:
- Confirm new device works perfectly
- Then wipe old device
Related:
Getting Help
Where can I get help if I'm still having issues?
Answer:
Multiple support channels are available for ZelCore assistance.
Official ZelCore Support:
Email:
- [email protected]
- Include detailed description
- Screenshots (never of seed phrase!)
- ZelCore version
- Operating system
Discord (Recommended):
- discord.gg/runonflux
- Active community and support team
- #zelcore-support channel
- Quick responses
- Other users can help
Social Media:
- Twitter: @zelcore_io
- Updates and announcements
- Can DM for support
- Public timeline for issues
Documentation:
- docs.zelcore.io
- Comprehensive guides
- FAQs and troubleshooting
- Step-by-step instructions
What to include when asking for help:
Always provide:
- What you were trying to do
- What actually happened
- Error messages (exact text)
- ZelCore version
- Device type (phone/desktop, OS)
- Steps you've already tried
Never include:
- ❌ Your seed phrase
- ❌ Your private keys
- ❌ Your D2FA PIN
- ❌ Your passwords
- ❌ Exact wallet balances (for privacy)
Support will NEVER ask for:
- ❌ Your seed phrase
- ❌ Your private keys
- ❌ Your password
- ❌ Remote access to your device
- ❌ To send them crypto for "verification"
Scam awareness:
Real support:
- Official channels only
- Never asks for seed phrase
- Never asks for funds
- Provides help freely
Scam warning signs:
- DMs from "support" (support won't DM first usually)
- Asks for seed phrase
- Requests funds to "verify" account
- Urgency or threats
- Unofficial channels
Community resources:
Reddit:
- r/ZelCore
- Community discussions
- User experiences
- Not official support
Telegram:
- Official ZelCore group
- Community help
- Announcements
GitHub:
- Technical issues
- Open source code
- Bug reports
- For developers
Response times:
Discord:
- Usually within hours
- Active community
- Fastest for common issues
Email:
- 24-48 hours typically
- More formal
- Better for complex issues
Before contacting support:
- Check this FAQ
- Search existing documentation
- Try troubleshooting steps
- Search Discord for similar issues
- Then contact if still stuck
Related:
- All documentation at docs.zelcore.io
- Security Best Practices