How to export an account's private key

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warning!

Exporting your account could be risky as it displays your private key in clear text. To avoid possible loss of funds, make sure no one else sees or is able to capture a screenshot while you retrieve your private key. Many phishing campaigns ask for your private key to gain access to your account. You should never share your private key with anyone, including the MetaMask team. No MetaMask representative, including our Support team, will ever ask for your private key, regardless of the context. If someone does ask for your private key, assume they are trying to scam you, and do not hand it over.

For more information on accounts and private keys, start here.

An Ethereum account's private key can be used to import it into any compatible wallet. Naturally, to import your account elsewhere via private key, you'll need to locate it in MetaMask first. Here's how:

Extension

1. Click on the account selector at the top of your screen.

2. Click the three vertical dots next to the account you want to export.

3. On the 'Account details' page, click 'show private key'.

   

4. Enter your wallet password and click 'Confirm'.

   

5. Click and hold on 'Hold to reveal Private Key' to display your private key.

   

6. Click to copy the private key to your clipboard. Make sure to save it somewhere safe.

7. Click 'Done' to close the screen.

Mobile

1. Use the account selector at the top of the wallet view to switch to the account whose private key you want to access.

2. Tap the ellipsis button immediately underneath the account's name, to the right of its truncated public address.

3. Tap 'show private key'.

4. Enter your wallet password and hit 'Next'.

5. Hold the button to reveal your private key.

   

Never share this key with anyone; if they have it, your account is compromised.