Learn the First Step to Truly Owning Your Crypto — Self-Custody.
New to crypto self-custody? This guide explains the fundamentals of cold storage — what it is, why it matters, and how it helps you truly own your assets.
By keeping your recovery keys offline, cold storage reduces exposure to hacks, third-party failures, and online risks. At Zero To Secure™, we focus on simple, practical education that helps you take control of your crypto with clarity and confidence.
Exchanges Hold Your Crypto. Self-Custody Lets You Own It.
When You Store Crypto on an Exchange
- Easy to access from your phone or computer
- Managed by third-party company (like Coinbase or Binance)
- Your crypto is pooled with others
- You don't own the wallet keys
- At risk if exchange is hacked or freezes your account
When You Store Crypto Yourself (Cold Storage)
- Stored offline, safe from online hacks
- You own and control the wallet
- Can't be frozen or seized by third parties
- Best for long-term holders
- Stored securely with a permanent offline recovery key
Zero To Secure™ makes cold storage simple — so you control your crypto like a pro, without needing to be one.
How to Take Control of Your Crypto — Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to secure your cryptocurrency with Zero To Secure™
Set Up Your Wallet
- Pick a hardware or software wallet (MetaMask, Phantom, etc.)
- Get your unique recovery key
- Prepare to secure it with Zero To Secure™
Locate Your Recovery Key
- Never save your recovery key on a phone or computer
- Record it on the Zero To Secure™ paper template
- Double-check each word for accuracy
Make a Permanent Backup
- Use the included electric or manual tool
- Create a permanent, tamper-proof backup on stainless-steel Zero To Secure™ plates
- Built to last for decades
Store It Safely for Life
- Keep it in a secure, hidden location
- Optionally create a second backup
- Destroy any paper copies created
- Protect your crypto for life
Why Most Backup Methods Fail When It Matters Most
Fragile Materials
- Easily destroyed by water, fire, or time
- Fades, tears, or smudges over time — especially when handled
- One accident can wipe out your only copy
Complicated Systems
- Letter tiles and washers fall out of order
- Hammer kits are loud, dangerous, and easy to mess up
- Most budget plates warp, rust, or fail under real-world conditions
Cloud Dependency
- Accounts lock, expire, or shut down
- Storing a key digitally exposes it to hacks and device breaches
- Trusting a company with your key means trusting them with your ownership
Hardware Breaks
- Electronics fail unexpectedly
- If your device is lost or damaged, your access is gone
- Only a permanent offline backup survives everything
Once you understand the risks, the only question left is how to back up your recovery key correctly.
How to Safely Store Your Crypto Seed Phrase
Your seed phrase (also called a recovery key) is the only way to access your crypto wallet. Storing it safely means keeping it offline, durable, accurate, and fully under your control.
Common Unsafe Methods
- Paper (degrades, burns, fades)
- Cloud storage (hackable, not private)
- Phone or computer (can be lost or stolen)
- Exchange custody (you don't control the keys)
- Hardware wallet alone (device can fail)
Safe Long-Term Storage
- Offline (never connected to the internet)
- Permanent (fireproof, waterproof material)
- Accurate (clearly engraved, no errors)
- Private (stored securely in your control)
- One-time setup (no ongoing maintenance)
Why Zero To Secure™ Is the Right Way to Start Self-Custody
Designed for Real-World Risk
Built to survive fire, water, time, and human error — without tech dependence.
Zero Learning Curve
From setup to engraving, everything just makes sense — no crypto experience needed.
Long-Term Peace of Mind
One secure kit now means control and clarity for years to come.
Zero To Secure™ Recovery Key Kit
The Zero To Secure™ Kit gives your recovery key a permanent home — offline, tamper-proof, and built to last. Every detail is designed to help you safeguard your crypto without relying on apps, clouds, paper, or confusing cold storage solutions.