Question 1

What is crypto self-custody?

Accepted Answer

Self-custody means you personally hold and control the private keys to your cryptocurrency, rather than trusting a third party like an exchange or custodial platform. When you self-custody, no one else can access, freeze, or move your assets without your direct authorization.

Question 2

What does "not your keys, not your coins" mean?

Accepted Answer

It means that if you don't personally hold the private keys to your cryptocurrency, you don't truly own it. When your assets are on an exchange, you're trusting that company to hold and manage them on your behalf, and they can restrict access at any time.

Question 3

Why should I move my crypto off an exchange?

Accepted Answer

Exchanges are designed for buying and selling, not long-term storage. If the exchange is hacked, goes bankrupt, or freezes your account for a compliance review, you may lose access to your assets. Self-custody removes this third-party risk.

Question 4

Is self-custody safe?

Accepted Answer

Self-custody is safe when set up correctly with proper key management, secure backup practices, and appropriate hardware. The risks come from user error, like losing seed phrases, falling for phishing attacks, or misconfiguring wallets, not from inherent flaws in the technology.

Question 5

What is a hardware wallet?

Accepted Answer

A hardware wallet is a physical device designed to store your cryptocurrency private keys offline. By keeping keys off internet-connected devices, hardware wallets protect against remote hacking, malware, and phishing attacks. Popular options include Ledger, Trezor, and Coldcard.

Question 6

What is a seed phrase?

Accepted Answer

A seed phrase is a set of 12 or 24 words generated when you create a new wallet. It is the master backup to your wallet and can restore access to all your crypto if your device is lost or broken. It must be stored securely offline. Never digitally.

Question 7

What is a multisig wallet?

Accepted Answer

A multisig wallet requires more than one private key to authorize a transaction. For example, a 2-of-3 multisig requires any 2 of 3 designated keys to approve a transfer. This provides extra security and prevents any single point of failure.

Question 8

Does Key Vault Pro hold my crypto or have access to my keys?

Accepted Answer

No. Key Vault Pro is a non-custodial consulting firm. We never hold, access, or control your cryptocurrency, private keys, or seed phrases. Every setup is performed with the client present and all access remains entirely client-controlled.

Question 9

Is Key Vault Pro a financial advisor?

Accepted Answer

No. Key Vault Pro does not provide financial advice, investment recommendations, or portfolio management. We are a technical consulting firm focused on self-custody infrastructure, security, and education.

Question 10

What is The Vault Method?

Accepted Answer

The Vault Method is Key Vault Pro's 3-step framework: Audit (review current setup and identify risks), Architect (design a secure self-custody infrastructure), and Armor (harden security, train the client, and provide ongoing support).

Question 11

What does a discovery call cover?

Accepted Answer

The discovery call is a free 30-minute conversation to review your current crypto setup and determine whether our services are a good fit. We discuss your goals, current storage methods, and any security concerns. There is no obligation and no sales pressure.

Question 12

Do you offer in-person consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Key Vault Pro operates out of a physical office at 97 Central St, Peabody, Massachusetts. In-person consultations are available by appointment. We also serve clients remotely.

Question 13

How do I get started with Key Vault Pro?

Accepted Answer

Start by booking a free 30-minute discovery call on our website or emailing keyinfo@keyvaultpro.com. We'll review your situation and outline a plan tailored to your needs.

Question 14

Do I need technical knowledge before working with you?

Accepted Answer

No. We work with clients at every experience level. From complete beginners to experienced holders upgrading their security. Our job is to meet you where you are and make the process clear.

Question 15

Do you serve clients outside of Massachusetts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While our office is in Peabody, MA, we serve clients throughout New England and remotely. In-person consultations are available for those in the Greater Boston and North Shore area.

Question 16

Does your team have cybersecurity experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our team includes professionals with direct backgrounds in cybersecurity and threat assessment. This experience shapes how we evaluate risks, design secure setups, and educate clients on threats like phishing, SIM swaps, and social engineering. We see cybersecurity awareness as the first line of defense in protecting digital assets.

Question 17

How does Key Vault Pro address social engineering threats?

Accepted Answer

We educate clients on common social engineering tactics: phishing emails, fake support calls, SIM swap attacks, and impersonation schemes. Our team's cybersecurity background means we don't just set up wallets. We help clients recognize and avoid the human-targeting attacks that cause most crypto losses.

Question 18

Does Key Vault Pro recommend specific products?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We maintain a curated list of hardware wallets, seed storage solutions, authentication tools, and software that we have personally tested and used with clients. Our recommendations follow a Trust but Verify approach. Some products are available for purchase directly through our office.

Common Questions

Self-Custody Basics

Hardware Wallets

Crypto Security

Key Vault Pro Services

Getting Started

Still have questions?