Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Glossary

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User-Controlled Wallet

1 min read
Pronunciation
[yoo-zer kuhn-trohld woll-it]
Analogy
Like holding the only copy of your safe’s key—you alone decide when to open it.
Definition
A wallet where the user exclusively controls private keys, without reliance on third parties for signing or key storage.
Key Points Intro
User control ensures:
Key Points

Self-custody: No intermediary holds keys.

Direct signing: Transactions signed client-side.

Privacy: No KYC/AML enforced by wallet.

Responsibility: User handles backups.

Example
MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and hardware wallets are user-controlled: keys never leave user devices.
Technical Deep Dive
Wallet software uses Web Crypto or secure enclave to store keys and sign transactions. No key escrow. Backup via BIP‑39 seed phrase.
Security Warning
User mistakes (phishing, lost seed) can lead to permanent loss.
Caveat
User control trades convenience and support for full responsibility.

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