file is the "heartbeat" of a Bitcoin Core user's digital wealth. It typically includes: Private Keys: The actual "passwords" that allow coins to be spent. Public Keys and Addresses: Used to verify and receive funds. Key Metadata: Labels and HD (Hierarchical Deterministic) seeds. Transaction History: A record of all incoming and outgoing transfers. The Danger of Exposure If an attacker downloads your wallet.dat file, they have essentially stolen your physical wallet. Direct Theft:
The most critical files include: