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Exploring partial seed phrase recovery: 17 of 24 words

Missing Words | Crypto Users Debate Recovery Odds of Seed Phrase

By

Sophia Martinez

Apr 2, 2025, 04:19 PM

Updated

Apr 3, 2025, 03:38 PM

A digital illustration depicting a fragmented seed phrase recovery process, showcasing 17 out of 24 words on a screen, with a backdrop of intricate blockchain networks and security symbols.

A Trezor user's hopes to recover a partially missing seed phrase have sparked heated discussions among cryptocurrency enthusiasts. With the challenges of retrieving the last seven of 24 words looming large, both skepticism and determination define the communityโ€™s response as the search for solutions intensifies.

Earlier this year, a Trezor user faced a daunting dilemma after only writing down 17 of the necessary 24 words for their seed phrase. Initially intended to be securely recorded, their effort to digitize the phrase faltered when the user opted to print it without noting the last words, leading to questions about the viability of recovery through BTC recover software.

Curiously, discussions have emerged about different approaches to recover the missing words. Quite a few comments hinted at employing scripts to substitute the lost words with every option from the BIP39 word list for potential wallet address matches. As one knowledgeable commentator remarked, "It can be done but will take days or months of brute force CPU power." The potential for success appears to hinge on having some addresses derived from the original seed phrase.

The Community Weighs In

The cryptocurrency community's reaction is a mix of encouragement and doubt. Some users optimistically argue that if the Trezor remains accessible via the PIN, the funds can be moved temporarily, preventing a permanent loss. This sentiment reflects a sense of resilience, with one member commenting: "If they can still access their Trezor with the PIN, they can just transfer the funds out to an exchange/hot wallet temporarily." However, not everyone shares this view; the reality of irreversible mistakes remains a constant concern.

Interestingly, while a few users recognize that scenarios involving fewer missing words make recovery more manageableโ€”with only three words being straightforward if their positions are knownโ€”others express deep skepticism about the chances of salvaging the situation with seven missing words. One user noted, "Seven not a [realistic prospect]."

As discussions unfold, it has also been noted that the previous attempts to store the seed phrase digitally could have complicated the recovery process. Comments highlight the risks of keeping sensitive information in digital formats, emphasizing that relying on "an Excel file was a VERY BAD idea" due to its vulnerability to deletion. Some suggest that if the file were deleted recently, recovery tools may still provide a glimmer of hope.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ”‘ Users express skepticism about recovery methods, especially for seven missing words.

  • ๐Ÿ“Š Comments indicate that smaller losses may still be feasible using specialized tactics.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "If the Excel file was deleted a long time ago, it is likely not retrievable." - User Reflection.

The Road Ahead

As the cryptocurrency community navigates this complex issue, it seems clear that lessons about secure management of digital assets are becoming increasingly essential. Will creators and developers elevate their game to present effective recovery options or preventative measures to avoid future heartaches?

As the discussion continues, the stakes remain high for the many who find themselves in similar predicaments. How far are enthusiasts willing to venture into the world of computing power and algorithmic wizardry to unlock their digital fortunes? Only time will tell as the quest for lost words continues.