Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Fraud · Bitcoin
Bitcoin hacked or stolen?
Containnew wallet
Traceblock explorer
Reportpolice & exchange
Preventhardware wallet
In short: If Bitcoin has left your wallet without your permission, assume your seed phrase, device or exchange account is compromised. Move any remaining funds to a brand-new wallet created on a clean device, change your passwords and email security, and turn on app-based two-factor authentication. Record the transaction ID and trace the funds on a block explorer. If they reach an exchange, report it immediately to that exchange and the police. Bitcoin transactions can't be reversed, but exchange freezes and court orders sometimes recover funds.
| How it happened | What to fix |
|---|---|
| Seed phrase exposed (photo, cloud, fake site) | New wallet, new seed, stored offline |
| SIM swap | Ask your network for a SIM lock; remove SMS 2FA |
| Malware | Wipe or replace the device |
| Exchange account taken over | Contact the exchange urgently; reset credentials |
Common causes
Frequently asked questions
Can stolen Bitcoin be recovered?
Sometimes, if traced to an exchange quickly.
How do I keep Bitcoin safe?
Use a hardware wallet and keep your seed phrase offline.
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