Signing devices

In plain words

A signing device (often called a hardware wallet) keeps your keys in a chip that never surrenders them. Your computer or phone drafts a payment; the device shows what it truly says — how much, to where — and signs only when you press approve. Malware can ask. It cannot sign. Some models never plug in at all, passing payments by QR code or memory card.

Why it matters

• Keys never live on an internet-connected machine. That is the whole trick.
• The device's screen tells the truth; a computer's screen can lie.
• Cheap insurance beside what it guards.

Not to be confused with

• Wallet apps — software that watches your coins and drafts payments; the device only holds keys and signs.

Go deeper

• Hardware wallets
• Keys & addresses
• Multisig