All About Pairing Codes: Do’s and Don’ts

We recently touched on security best practices, but wallet security is so multifaceted that it’s often tricky for us (and not-so-helpful for you) to pack all the best tips into one overloaded post.

Beyond your wallet credentials, there are other important bits in your wallet that you should never share. This time we’ll be covering wallet pairing codes, which allow you to seamlessly pair your web wallet to your mobile device, and vice versa. For do’s and don’ts about pairing codes, read on.

What are pairing codes?

Pairing codes are secure, unique codes that allow you to sync app access across multiple devices. They are handy because they save you the trouble of manually logging in on each device, and the process is also a lot faster. Pairing codes can often be a PIN number, or they’ll be in QR (Quick Response) format, like you’ll see in your Blockchain wallet. You can find your pairing code by navigating to Settings -> Wallet Information, and clicking on Show Pairing Code.

Why use one?

Like we touched on, pairing codes grant instant access to your wallet on your secondary devices. If you’re primarily a web user and also want to log in using an iOS or Android device, all you need to do is download the app, choose automatic pairing, and use your new device to scan the pairing code displayed in your web wallet.

Once scanned, both devices will now automatically reflect all transaction activity with that particular wallet. And just like that, you can now use both devices to seamlessly send, receive, and store your funds.

Never share your pairing code

Now that we’ve explained exactly what pairing codes do, we’re sure you understand why it’s so important to never share them with anyone. Ever. Whoever has your pairing code can access your wallet without having to know your wallet id, your password, or 2FA credentials. You’d be giving them no holds barred access to your funds, recovery phrase, and your transaction history.

Pairing codes and phishing attempts

Unfortunately, pairing codes have also attracted the attention of phishers. Often posing as a member of our support team on Facebook or Twitter, they’ll insist users provide a screenshot of their wallet pairing code or reveal their 12-word recovery phrase in order for their issue to be resolved. To set the record straight, neither of these are needed to receive support, and our support team will never ask you for them.

To avoid falling victim to malicious attempts like these, reach out for help using @AskBlockchain and our Support Request link only. Our support team does not provide support via personal Facebook profiles, private messages, or Twitter direct messages.

More questions about pairing codes?

If you’d like to know more about pairing codes, let us know by sending in your feedback!

Originally published at https://blockchain-blog.ghost.io on September 22, 2017.