BullBitcoin unveils today RecoverBull, a new open-source protocol that could transform the way we back up Bitcoin wallets.
The idea is simple: to allow any user, even a novice, to protect their wallet in two minutes, then restore it with a simple PIN code, all without ever entrusting their keys to anyone.
RecoverBull combines three elements:
Strong encryption, a backup file stored wherever you want (cloud or local), and an anonymous key server. Together, they create a backup solution simpler than a seed phrase, but still entirely non-custodial.
This is a direct response to a problem that bitcoiners know all too well: the loss, forgetting or poor management of a backup.
The Bull Bitcoin philosophy: simplify without sacrificing sovereignty
For years, Bull Bitcoin has been working with one guiding idea: to make self-custody as seamless as the custodial experience, but without ever relinquishing control of the keys.
Their mobile wallet, the BULL Wallet, already allows you to buy, send and receive Bitcoin in a non-custodial manner, while integrating Lightning payments thanks to a particularly elegant atomic swap technology.
But one obstacle remained:
Backup, that weak link where so many users abandon self-custody to return to centralized solutions like Binance for example.
RecoverBull specifically wants to bridge this gap.
Why traditional backups don't work for the general public
On paper, writing a seed phrase seems easy.
In practice, it's a series of risks:
- It's possible to forget to make a backup.
- You can lose your paper.
- You can store your metal plate incorrectly.
- We can forget about the passphrase.
- or, conversely, keep it in the wrong place.
- And in the event of death, nobody knows what to do.
For the majority of users, especially beginners, this complexity is simply a hindrance to sovereignty.
As a result, most remain in custodianship, for lack of a better option. And that's a real shame. RecoverBull was created to provide a simpler alternative, without abandoning the fundamental principles of Bitcoin.
RecoverBull: a backup in two minutes, restored with a PIN
RecoverBull is based on an intuitive idea:
The user only needs to remember one thing: their password.
Everything else, the encryption key and the backup file, can be safely stored in different locations:
- A backup file containing the encrypted seed, which the user stores wherever they want: Google Drive, iCloud, a personal NAS, a USB key…
- An encrypted key, stored on a Anonymous RecoverBull serveraccessible only via TOR.
- A PIN code, memorized by the user, which allows these two elements to be combined.
To restore your wallet, you simply need to:
- to retrieve your backup file,
- reinstall the wallet.
- Enter your PIN.
- and let the application retrieve the encrypted key via TOR.
In a few seconds, the seed reappears without ever being exposed to a third party.
A security system designed to withstand human error
RecoverBull does not rely on the user's memory or diligence.
It's actually the opposite: it was designed to tolerate mistakes.
The security model is based on three elements:
1. No one has enough information to steal the wallet
Neither the server, nor the cloud, nor a lone attacker possesses the three necessary elements.
Without the PIN, the backup key is unusable.
Without the file, the PIN is useless.
Without the RecoverBull server, nothing is recoverable.
2. The RecoverBull server knows nothing about the user
He doesn't see:
- IP address (connection via TOR),
- Bitcoin address,
- from seed,
- by name,
- phone number,
- nor the contents of the backup file.
Even if legally compelled, the server cannot reveal anything.
3. Brute-force attacks are impossible
The password can be simple, often a PIN code, because the server imposes a strict limit on attempts (three attempts per 24 hours).
Brute-forcing a stolen file becomes unrealistic.
What RecoverBull is not (and should not be)
RecoverBull is not a lifetime vault for holdings. Keep in mind before you begin that:
❌ This is not cold storage.
❌ This is not an alternative to multisig.
❌ This is not a succession solution.
❌ This is not a replacement for long-term physical backups.
RecoverBull is designed for hot wallets, meaning wallets that are used daily or weekly, with reasonable amounts of money. These are typically the kind of Bitcoin wallets used for everyday life.
In other words, it should be remembered that Recover Bull is a sovereign alternative to custodial wallets.
When to use RecoverBull?
RecoverBull is ideal for you if you:
- manage a mobile wallet,
- spend sats regularly,
- Use Lightning.
- refuse custody through an exchange.
- but don't want to go through a seed phrase for a hot wallet.
For an everyday wallet, RecoverBull offers the best compromise currently available between simplicity and sovereignty.
An open-source protocol accessible to all developers
You know how much we appreciate projects open source Among Bitcoiners? Unsurprisingly, Bull Bitcoin maintains this value by publishing:
- the white paper,
- the customer code,
- the server code,
- and a full implementation in the BULL Wallet.
Anyone can integrate RecoverBull into their own wallet, create a standalone server, or audit the protocol. It's a true proposal for a standard for hot wallet backups.
Conclusion: a simple, pragmatic, and very Bitcoin-like innovation
RecoverBull is not trying to change Bitcoin. It is not adding smart contracts, guardians, or complicated abstractions.
He's simply trying to solve a very real problem among beginners (and others too). Yes, we have limitations, and a good Bitcoin wallet must take that into account.
By making backup easier, RecoverBull helps more people stay in self-custody, where many still switch to custodial for convenience.
It's a humble yet powerful innovation. An innovation that brings Bitcoin closer to its goal: a free, accessible, and resilient currency for all.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Some links in this article may be affiliate links. These commissions help support the magazine and fund the creation of independent, high-quality content.
