View Key
privacy · wallet
A read-only key that reveals selected wallet activity or balances without granting spending authority.
A view key lets someone inspect transactions or balances without access to the private spend key. Privacy-focused systems and some wallets use view keys for auditing, accounting, or watch-only monitoring.
View keys reduce custody risk but still expose sensitive financial information. They should be shared only with parties who need read access and understand the scope of what the key reveals.
Related terms
Privacy
→The ability to transact without revealing sensitive information about identity, balances, or counterparties.
security · principle
Address
→A network-specific identifier that describes a destination or spending condition for a cryptocurrency payment.
wallet · technical
Self-Custody
→Holding and securing your own private keys instead of relying on an exchange, custodian, or broker.
wallet · security