Wiping your Bitkey hardware device permanently removes the Hardware Key and disassociates it from your Bitkey wallet. This action cannot be undone and should only be done if you're discarding, giving away, or returning the device.
⚠️ WARNING: Wiping your device will erase the associated Hardware Key. After this, the device can no longer be used to approve transactions, help recover your App Key, or use the Emergency Exit Kit (as both keys are required) in an emergency scenario — such as if Block or the Bitkey app is no longer available.
If you haven’t set up a new Hardware Key, and later lose access to your App Key without having a Recovery Contact activated, you risk permanently losing access to your wallet and any funds it contains.
To wipe your Bitkey hardware device:
- In the
tab bar at the bottom of the Home screen, tap the
shield icon to open the Security hub
- Tap
Bitkey Device, then tap Replace device
- Bitkey will show a warning and tips to help you avoid losing access to your wallet. Tap Scan your Bitkey to continue
- If your wallet has spendable funds, you’ll need to transfer them before continuing. Follow the on-screen prompts to send your funds, then return to step 1 to start again
- If the device you're trying to wipe is no longer associated with your wallet, you'll see an informational message. Wiping can only be performed on the device currently paired with your app
- Review and acknowledge the risks by checking each box
- This device can no longer be used to access your wallet
- This device can no longer be used to recover your wallet if you lose your phone
- After confirming the risks, select Wipe device
- Bitkey will warn you again that wiping your device is permanent and cannot be undone. Tap Scan and Wipe to complete the process
- Once complete, tap Done to return to the Home screen