Introduction
Trust Wallet is a popular mobile cryptocurrency wallet that lets you store, send, receive, and manage a wide variety of digital assets. Designed for simplicity and broad blockchain compatibility, it's favored by users who want a self-custody solution on their phone that also provides easy access to decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and token swaps.
This guide explains Trust Wallet from the ground up: why people use it, how to set it up safely, what features it offers, and practical tips to get the most from it.
What is Trust Wallet?
Trust Wallet is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet that runs primarily on mobile devices (iOS and Android). Non-custodial means you — and only you — control the private keys for your crypto. The wallet supports many blockchains (Ethereum and its tokens, Binance Smart Chain, Solana, and many others) plus NFTs.
Key characteristics include:
- Self-custody: Private keys and recovery phrases are stored locally on your device.
- Multi-chain support: Works with many EVM and non-EVM networks and token standards.
- Built-in DApp browser: Accesses decentralized apps (DeFi, games, marketplaces) from inside the app.
- Swap & exchange: Integrated token swap functionality (aggregated liquidity providers).
- User-friendly UI: Focuses on ease of use for beginners while providing advanced features for experienced users.
Installing and Setting Up Trust Wallet
Below are step-by-step instructions for safely installing and initializing Trust Wallet on a mobile device.
1. Download from official app stores
Always download Trust Wallet from the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Avoid third-party app sources to minimize the risk of fake or malicious copies.
2. Create a new wallet
- Open the app and choose “Create a new wallet.”
- Read and accept the terms and privacy notices presented by the app.
- The wallet will generate a recovery phrase (typically 12 words).
3. Back up your recovery phrase (seed phrase)
This is the single most important step. Write the phrase down on paper and store it in a safe place. Do not take a photo of it, do not store it as plain text on a cloud service, and never share it with anyone. Anyone with this phrase can access your funds.
4. Confirm the recovery phrase
The app will ask you to confirm the seed phrase (by selecting the words in order). This verifies you copied it correctly.
5. Set optional security
Add a PIN code or biometric lock (fingerprint, Face ID) for on-device protection. Note that PINs protect the device, not the recovery phrase — the phrase is still the ultimate backup.
Core Features of Trust Wallet
Wallet & Asset Management
Trust Wallet supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and token standards (ERC-20, BEP-2, BEP-20, SPL, and more). You can add tokens manually by contract address or use the built-in token discovery.
Swap & DEX Aggregation
Use the built-in swap interface to trade tokens directly within the wallet. The wallet often aggregates liquidity from multiple decentralized exchanges to offer competitive rates and low slippage.
Built-in DApp Browser
Access decentralized applications such as DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, yield farms, and games from inside Trust Wallet. The DApp browser lets your wallet interact with smart contracts without exposing private keys.
Staking & Earning
For many proof-of-stake (PoS) networks, Trust Wallet provides staking or delegation options so you can earn rewards by participating in network validation or delegating to validators.
NFTs
View and manage NFTs supported on compatible blockchains. You can add NFT collections to your wallet and interact with marketplaces via the DApp browser.
Custom Tokens & Networks
Add custom networks and tokens by entering RPC, chain ID, symbol, and block explorer details if you use less common chains.
How to Send, Receive & Swap
Receiving Crypto
- Open the wallet and select the asset you want to receive.
- Tap "Receive" to show your wallet address and QR code.
- Share the address only with the sender; double-check network compatibility before receiving.
Sending Crypto
- Choose the asset and tap "Send".
- Paste or scan the recipient address and enter the amount.
- Check network fees and confirm the transaction.
Swapping Tokens
- Open the Swap/Exchange tab.
- Select tokens to swap (from / to) and enter an amount.
- Review the quoted rate, slippage tolerance (if adjustable), and fees, then confirm.
Always double-check network selection — sending tokens on the wrong chain (e.g., sending ERC-20 tokens to a BEP-20 address) may result in loss unless the receiving platform supports cross-chain recovery.
Security Best Practices
Trust Wallet puts control in your hands, which is powerful but also increases responsibility. Follow these security practices:
- Secure the seed phrase: Write it down on paper and store in a secure location (safe, safety deposit box). Consider metal backups for fire/water resistance.
- Never share your seed phrase: No legitimate service or support agent will ever ask for it.
- Use on-device security: Enable biometric unlock or a strong PIN.
- Beware of phishing: Only visit DApps via the wallet's browser or verified links. Don’t connect to unknown dApps asking to sign arbitrary messages without understanding the request.
- Keep app and OS updated: Install official updates from app stores to get security fixes.
- Small test transactions: When sending to a new address or when interacting with new DApps, use a small test amount first.
If your device is lost or compromised, you can recover your wallet on a new device using the seed phrase — but only if you backed it up securely.
Privacy Considerations
Blockchains are public ledgers: anyone can view balances and transactions tied to an address. Trust Wallet itself is a client and does not custody funds, but it may connect to third-party services for price data, swap routing, or network nodes. If privacy is a concern, consider:
- Using different addresses for different activities.
- Interacting with privacy-focused tools or mixing services with caution and legal awareness.
- Running your own node or choosing trusted RPC providers where possible.
Advanced Features & Tips
Custom Tokens
If a token doesn’t appear automatically, add it manually by pasting its contract address. Doing so requires doing research: verify contract addresses from official token sources to avoid scams.
Connecting to DeFi
Use the DApp browser to connect to decentralized exchanges, lending platforms, or yield farms. Carefully review contract addresses and permissions — when a contract requests approval, it may ask permission to spend unlimited tokens. Use limited approvals when possible.
Gas Fees & Network Choice
Transactions on different networks have different fee structures. For example, EVM chains like Binance Smart Chain usually have lower fees than Ethereum mainnet. Pick the network that matches the token and evaluate gas costs before transacting.
Staking
Many PoS tokens can be staked through Trust Wallet’s interface, allowing you to earn rewards. Understand the lock-up periods, minimum stake amounts, and validator reputation before delegating.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
Forgot PIN but have seed phrase
If you forget your wallet PIN but still have your seed phrase, reinstall the app and restore your wallet using the phrase.
Missing tokens
If a token balance isn’t visible, add the token manually by contract address or check that you’re on the correct network. Transaction explorers for the network can confirm whether the tokens exist at your address.
Failed transactions
A failed transaction still costs gas. Check error messages and on-chain explorers to diagnose issues; common causes include insufficient gas, contract reverts, or too-low slippage settings on swaps.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Simple and user-friendly mobile interface.
- Wide token and chain support.
- Built-in DApp browser and swap aggregation.
- Complete control over private keys.
Cons
- Mobile-only experience (no official desktop client), which may be limiting for some workflows.
- User responsibility for seed phrase means user error can be irreversible.
- Relying on third-party nodes/providers may have privacy implications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Trust Wallet safe?
Trust Wallet is considered secure when used correctly: the app uses local key storage and industry-standard cryptography. The biggest security risks come from user behavior (losing the seed phrase, falling for phishing), not the app itself.
Can I recover my wallet if I lose my phone?
Yes — if you have your recovery phrase. Install Trust Wallet on a new device, choose "I already have a wallet," and enter the seed phrase in the correct order.
Does Trust Wallet take custody of my coins?
No. Trust Wallet is non-custodial. You hold the private keys; the app is a tool to manage them.
Can I use Trust Wallet with hardware wallets?
At the time of writing, Trust Wallet focuses on mobile key storage. If using a hardware wallet is important to you for cold storage, consider complementary solutions that support hardware integration.
Final Thoughts
Trust Wallet is a powerful, convenient option for users who want a capable mobile wallet with broad blockchain support and DeFi access. Its non-custodial nature gives you full control — and full responsibility. If you prioritize ease of use combined with the flexibility to interact with NFTs, staking, and DApps, Trust Wallet is a solid choice.
The most important single recommendation: secure your recovery phrase. That simple action protects your assets and lets you take full advantage of everything Trust Wallet offers.