The Cross-Check Routine
Twelve steps we follow in every verification session — published so holders know what to expect before they arrive.
Why a routine matters
Ad-hoc checking invites skipped steps. When anxiety is high — after a scare, before a long trip, during an estate handover — a fixed sequence keeps the work calm and complete. We developed this routine over six years and hundreds of sessions.
The twelve steps
Intake and scope
We confirm how many copies you brought, which wallets they serve, and whether a passphrase is involved. No phrase material is recorded on networked devices.
Environmental check
Lighting, seating, and surface are adjusted for legibility. Magnification aids are available. Beverages stay away from paper copies.
Inventory labelling
Each copy receives a temporary label (Copy A, B, C) on its sleeve — never on the phrase itself. We note the medium: paper, steel, card, other.
Legibility assessment
Each word is read aloud by you and transcribed independently by the practitioner onto a worksheet. Discrepancies are flagged before comparison begins.
Word-by-word alignment
Copies are compared in pairs. Mismatches are marked on the worksheet with position number and both variants recorded.
BIP39 dictionary check
Every word is confirmed against the standard 2048-word list. Near-misses (common typos, homophones) are noted with the correct candidate.
Checksum validation
Using our reference deck, we verify the final word's checksum validity for each complete phrase variant. Invalid checksums indicate a transcription error somewhere in the sequence.
Controlled derivation test
On an air-gapped device, the confirmed phrase is entered by you alone. We verify that the resulting xpub or first address matches your records.
Passphrase verification (if applicable)
You demonstrate passphrase knowledge by deriving a known address. The passphrase is never written down during the session.
Storage condition notes
We photograph the storage containers (not the phrase) and note environmental risks: humidity, heat sources, magnetic exposure.
Discrepancy resolution
Any errors found are corrected on a fresh worksheet. You re-write or re-engrave as needed before leaving.
Holder record update
Session findings are summarised. For audit clients, a formal report follows within 48 hours.
What to bring
- All physical backup copies you want verified
- Your hardware wallet (optional, for address confirmation)
- A list of expected addresses or xpubs (written, not digital)
- Reading glasses if you use them
Ready to walk through it?
The routine is included in every Full Seed-Backup Audit and Cross-Check Session. Contact us to schedule.
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