What is a Satoshi Test and How Do I Complete It?

What is a Satoshi Test?

A Satoshi Test is a wallet ownership verification method used to confirm that you control a specific self-hosted wallet address. A Satoshi test is only applied in relation to self-hosted wallets.
As part of Travel Rule requirements, Gate may be required to verify ownership of self-hosted wallets used for cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals. The Satoshi Test helps us verify that the wallet belongs to you before a transaction can be completed.
The verification process involves sending a small amount of cryptocurrency from the wallet being verified to a verification address provided by Gate.
For more information about Travel Rule requirements, please refer to our Travel Rule FAQ .

When is Verification Required?

You may be required to complete a Satoshi Test when:

• Depositing funds from an unverified self-hosted wallet.
• Making a withdrawal to a new self-hosted wallet.
• Additional wallet ownership verification is required.
• Travel Rule requirements apply to your transfer.
• Enhanced due diligence or compliance checks are required, such as when transactional activity has changed.

Verification Requirements

To successfully complete the Satoshi Test, you must:

• Send cryptocurrency from the exact wallet address being verified.
• Send the funds to the verification address provided by Gate.
• Transfer the exact amount specified during the verification process.
• Complete the verification within the required time limit.
• Follow any additional instructions displayed during the verification flow.

Failure to satisfy any of the above requirements may result in a failed verification.

How Do I Complete the Satoshi Test?

Step 1: Start Verification

When depositing from or withdrawing to a self-hosted wallet, you may be prompted to verify wallet ownership.
Select Start Verification to begin the Satoshi Test process.

Step 2: Review the Verification Details

Gate will display:

• The wallet address being verified.
• A Gate verification address.
• The exact amount that must be transferred.
• The verification timeframe.

Please carefully review all information before proceeding.

Step 3: Send the Verification Transaction

Using the wallet you wish to verify:

• Send the exact amount displayed.
• Use the correct blockchain network.
• Complete the transaction before the verification deadline expires.

Important: Network fees are separate from the verification amount. You must ensure the exact required amount reaches the Gate verification address.

Step 4: Confirm the Transaction

Once the transaction has been submitted:

• Return to the verification page.
• Confirm that the transaction has been completed.
• Provide any additional information requested.

Step 5: Verification Review

Gate will review the submitted transaction and determine the verification result.

Verification Status

Successful

If the verification is successful:

• The wallet will be marked as verified.
• Future transactions using the same wallet may not require additional verification unless our tools detect any changes.
• Any eligible pending transfers can proceed.

Pending

If verification is still under review:

• Your transfer may remain on hold.
• Additional information may be requested.
• Processing may take longer while checks are completed.

Failed

Verification may fail if:

• The transaction is sent from a different wallet address.
• The incorrect amount is transferred.
• The wrong blockchain network is used.
• The verification deadline expires.
• Required information is missing.

If verification fails, you may be required to restart the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to complete a Satoshi Test?

The Satoshi Test helps Gate comply with Travel Rule obligations and verify that you control the wallet involved in the transaction. This requirement applies across the EU and is mandatory for all service providers.

How much cryptocurrency do I need to send?

The exact amount will be displayed during the verification process. It will typically be a small amount of cryptocurrency used solely for verification purposes.

What happens if I send the wrong amount?

The verification may fail if the amount sent does not exactly match the amount requested.
You may be required to restart the verification process.

What happens if I miss the verification deadline?

The verification request will expire and the wallet will not be verified.
You will need to start a new verification attempt.

Are there any fees?

Yes. Blockchain network fees may apply when completing the verification transaction.
These fees are charged by the relevant blockchain network and are not controlled by Gate.

Will I need to complete a Satoshi Test every time?

Not necessarily.
Once a wallet has been successfully verified, it may remain verified for future transactions. However, Gate may request additional verification where required by regulation, risk assessments, or compliance obligations.

What happens if my verification fails?

You can generally start a new verification attempt and repeat the process.

Does the Satoshi Test give Gate access to my wallet?

No.
The Satoshi Test only confirms that you control a wallet address. Gate does not gain access to your wallet, assets, or private keys.

Why is my withdrawal still pending?

Your withdrawal may remain pending while:

• Verification is being reviewed.
• Additional compliance checks are completed.
• Further information is requested.

Who can I contact if I need assistance?

Please contact Gate Customer Support if you require assistance with the Satoshi Test or wallet verification process.