What is Trust Wallet?

Trust Wallet is a secure, mobile-first cryptocurrency wallet that supports a vast array of digital assets across multiple blockchains. Acquired by Binance in 2018, it has grown to become one of the most popular mobile wallets in the crypto space, serving over 10 million users worldwide.

Unlike many wallets that focus on a single blockchain, Trust Wallet is multi-chain by design, supporting Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB Smart Chain, Polygon, and dozens of other networks. Its integrated DApp browser and built-in swap functionality make it a comprehensive solution for managing and trading cryptocurrencies directly from your mobile device.

Key Advantages of Trust Wallet

  • Non-custodial: You control your private keys - not a third party
  • Multi-chain support: Manage assets across 65+ blockchains in one app
  • Built-in DEX: Swap tokens directly within the wallet
  • DApp browser: Access decentralized applications seamlessly
  • Staking capabilities: Earn rewards by staking supported coins
  • Open source: Transparent code that can be audited by anyone

Getting Started with Trust Wallet

1 Download and Install

Download Trust Wallet from the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Avoid third-party app stores to ensure you're getting the legitimate application. The app is free to download and use.

2 Create a New Wallet

When you first open the app, select "Create a New Wallet." You'll be presented with a 12-word recovery phrase. Write this down on paper and store it securely. This phrase is your master key to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

3 Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Trust Wallet will ask you to verify your recovery phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. Never share this phrase with anyone, and avoid storing it digitally (no screenshots, email, or cloud storage).

4 Set Up Security Features

Enable biometric authentication (Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint) and/or a passcode in the app settings for additional security. This prevents unauthorized access to your wallet even if someone has physical access to your device.

Trust Wallet Exchange Features

Trust Wallet includes powerful built-in exchange functionality that allows you to swap tokens without leaving the app. Here's how to make the most of these features:

Built-in DEX (Decentralized Exchange)

The wallet integrates with multiple decentralized exchanges to provide the best rates for your swaps. Simply navigate to the "Swap" tab, select the tokens you want to exchange, and confirm the transaction. The app automatically handles the complexity of finding the best exchange rate across multiple DEXs.

Connecting to External Exchanges

While Trust Wallet has built-in swap functionality, you can also connect it to external decentralized exchanges like PancakeSwap, Uniswap, and others through the DApp browser. This gives you access to a wider range of trading pairs and liquidity pools.

Buy Crypto with Fiat

Trust Wallet partners with multiple payment providers to allow you to purchase cryptocurrencies directly with fiat money (USD, EUR, etc.). The "Buy" tab connects you with regulated third-party services that accept credit/debit cards and bank transfers.

Maximizing Exchange Efficiency

  • Always check the slippage tolerance before swapping volatile tokens
  • Compare rates between the built-in swap and external DEXs for large transactions
  • Consider network congestion and gas fees when timing your transactions
  • Use the transaction speed settings to prioritize cost vs. confirmation time

Supported Blockchains and Tokens

Trust Wallet's multi-chain architecture supports an extensive range of cryptocurrencies. Here are some of the major blockchains supported:

Ethereum

ETH and all ERC-20 tokens

ERC-20 NFTs

BNB Smart Chain

BNB and BEP-20 tokens

BEP-20 Low Fees

Polygon

MATIC and Polygon tokens

MATIC Scaling

Bitcoin

Native Bitcoin support

BTC Secure

In addition to these major chains, Trust Wallet supports Avalanche, Fantom, Arbitrum, Optimism, and dozens of other networks. The wallet automatically detects most standard tokens, but you can also manually add custom tokens using their contract addresses.

Advanced Features

DApp Browser

Trust Wallet's built-in DApp browser allows you to interact with decentralized applications directly from the wallet. This is particularly useful for accessing DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and blockchain games without needing to connect a separate wallet.

Staking and Earning

Many supported cryptocurrencies can be staked directly within Trust Wallet to earn rewards. The app simplifies the staking process, handling the technical details while you earn passive income on your holdings.

NFT Support

Trust Wallet has comprehensive NFT support, allowing you to view, send, and receive NFTs across multiple blockchains. The wallet automatically detects NFTs in your wallet and displays them in a dedicated gallery.

WalletConnect Integration

For DApps that aren't accessible through the built-in browser, Trust Wallet supports WalletConnect. This allows you to connect your mobile wallet to desktop DApps by scanning a QR code.

Security Best Practices

Critical Security Measures

  • Never share your recovery phrase: This 12-word phrase gives complete control over your wallet
  • Enable all available security features: Biometrics, passcodes, and transaction signing
  • Verify transaction details: Always double-check addresses and amounts before confirming
  • Keep your app updated: Updates often include important security patches
  • Beware of phishing attempts: Only download Trust Wallet from official app stores

Backup and Recovery

Your 12-word recovery phrase is the most important piece of information for your wallet. Store it securely offline, and consider creating multiple copies in different secure locations. Test your recovery process with a small amount of crypto to ensure you've recorded the phrase correctly.

Transaction Security

Always verify the receiving address when sending funds. Consider sending a small test transaction first when dealing with new addresses. Be cautious of "airdrops" or unsolicited tokens, as they may be scams designed to drain your wallet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Transactions Stuck or Pending

If a transaction is stuck, you can usually resolve it by waiting for network congestion to clear. For Ethereum-based transactions, you may be able to speed them up or cancel them using the "Speed Up" feature if supported by the network.

Missing Tokens

If you don't see a token that should be in your wallet, try enabling it in the wallet settings. You may need to manually add the token using its contract address if it's not in Trust Wallet's default list.

Connection Issues with DApps

If you're having trouble connecting to DApps, try clearing the DApp browser cache in settings. For WalletConnect connections, ensure you're using the latest version of the app and try re-scanning the QR code.

Recovering a Wallet

If you need to restore your wallet on a new device, select "I already have a wallet" during setup and enter your 12-word recovery phrase. Your entire wallet history, including all supported assets across all blockchains, will be restored.