Self-custody
Self-custody means controlling the private keys required to authorize spending rather than relying on a custodian.
Why it matters
Self-custody means controlling the private keys required to authorize spending rather than relying on a custodian.
Key ideas
- Self-custody means controlling the private keys required to authorize spending rather than relying on a custodian.
- This topic belongs to California Bitcoin’s custody knowledge layer.
- Use primary and technical sources where possible, and distinguish protocol facts from market narratives.
Primary and technical sources
Bitcoin Developer DocumentationBitcoin.orgBitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash SystemSatoshi Nakamoto
Related concepts
Ways people ask about this
- What does Bitcoin self-custody mean?
- Why do Bitcoiners say “not your keys, not your coins”?
- How does self-custody work with Bitcoin?
- Should a Bitcoin beginner use self-custody?
- What are the biggest risks of self-custody?
- Is self-custody safer than keeping Bitcoin on an exchange?