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The risks of 3/3 multisig wallets: is it worth it?

The Risks of 3/3 Multisig Wallets | Users Question Security Measures

By

Roberto Silva

Jul 18, 2025, 02:44 PM

Edited By

Leo Zhang

Updated

Jul 19, 2025, 04:37 AM

2 minutes estimated to read

A graphic showing two types of multisig wallet configurations: a 3/3 setup and a 2/3 setup, highlighting their security differences.

A rising wave of skepticism surrounds the use of 3/3 multisig wallets as people raise alarm about accidental hacks and practical security measures. Recent discussions on forums show many are leaning toward the more practical 2/3 configuration, citing potential pitfalls of the 3/3 setup.

The Security Debate: 3/3 vs. 2/3 Configurations

While multisig wallets promise enhanced security, a noticeable concern is the reliability of a 3/3 setup. One user commented, "Mostly hack. Physical security is not an issue. Compromised seed generation signing device malware" These sentiments reflect a growing unease among people who emphasize the risks of relying on a single signing device for significant sums.

Hardware Vulnerabilities and Risks

Experts weigh in on the vulnerabilities tied to hardware wallets. Comments on user boards note the recent $23 million hack of a core developer as particularly worrying.

  • "Trusting one signing device with meaningful sums is pretty risky," shared a commentator, suggesting the need for diversified seed storage.

  • Users emphasize separating keys by space, time of generation, and signing device, to mitigate risks, implying that adopting certain security measures can improve safety.

Preference for Simpler Solutions

Not everyone is sold on the complexities of multisig wallets. Some suggest that a single, air-gapped wallet with a passphrase suffices for most scenarios. As one user mentioned, "Outside of a board or corporate scenario: air-gapped single sig with a passphrase is awesome for 99% of use cases."

Proponents of the 2/3 setup argue for its redundancy, a stark contrast to the risk inherent in 3/3 configurations. Many are beginning to see the advantages of 2/3 as a sound compromise on security without the added risks of a fully reliant 3/3 model.

Sentiment Patterns Emerge

The conversation reveals a mixed sentiment among forum users regarding the security of multisig wallets.

  • β—‹ A clear majority still favor the simplicity and security of the 2/3 model.

  • β–³ Concerns about higher fees for small transactions still loom large.

  • ● Some users believe that the added complexity of 3/3 wallets may not provide sufficient benefits considering potential issues.

Key Takeaways

  • ⚠️ Users highlight significant risks associated with 3/3 setups, especially regarding hardware reliance.

  • πŸ“‰ Interest is growing for simpler, air-gapped solutions that offer ease of use and comparable security.

  • πŸ”Ž A potential shift toward 2/3 solutions appears imminent as users grapple with practical risk assessments.

With ongoing debates about wallet security, the cryptocurrency community may favor configurations that balance risk with adequate protection. Users are urged to carefully evaluate their security approaches to avoid potential pitfalls.