LateLune / Guides / Monero view keys

Monero view keys, explained

A Monero wallet has two secret keys. One can spend. One can only look. Knowing the difference keeps you safe.

Every Monero wallet is built on two private keys.

The spend key

This one moves money. Whoever has it controls the coins. It never leaves your wallet and you never share it.

The view key

This one can only see incoming payments. It can't spend anything. You can give it to someone so they can see what arrived at your wallet, without being able to take a cent.

Why view keys are useful

Shops. A store can run a "view-only wallet" on its server. It sees payments come in and confirms orders, while the spend key stays offline, safely away from any hacker.

Accounting. Give a view key to an accountant or auditor so they can check your incoming payments.

Proof. Show someone that a payment arrived without handing over control.

What a view key reveals

Incoming payments and amounts to that wallet. On its own, it doesn't reliably show outgoing spends. Treat it as private anyway: it's still a full list of what you received.

FAQ

Is it safe to share my view key?

Only with someone you trust to see your incoming payments. It can't spend.

Can I lose money with a view key?

No. Only the spend key or seed can move funds.

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