This guide explains how to sign an arbitrary message using your Ledger device and Etherscan. Signing a message proves ownership or control of the private keys associated with an Ethereum (ETH) address.
Note: This process is specific to the Ethereum blockchain. Signing messages on other blockchains will require different tools and methods.
Before You Start
Update Software and Firmware:
Download and install the latest version of Ledger Live.
Update the firmware on your Ledger device.
Setup:
Ensure you have an Ethereum (ETH) account set up in Ledger Live.
Use the Chrome browser for this process.
Important:
Signing a message does not incur ETH gas fees.
Signing a Message with Your Ledger Device and Etherscan
Open Ledger Live:
Navigate to your Ethereum account in Ledger Live.
Go to Etherscan:
With Ledger Live open, go to Etherscan’s Verified Signatures page.
Select ‘Sign Message’:
Click on ‘Sign message’.
Choose Connection Method:
Select ‘WalletConnect’ as the connection method.
Select Ledger:
Choose ‘Ledger’ and click ‘Open Ledger Live’.
Connect Ledger Live:
Ledger Live should display a ‘Connect to Etherscan’ page.
Ensure the correct Ethereum account is selected, tick the box, and click ‘Connect’.
Enter Message:
Return to Etherscan, enter your message in the provided box, and click ‘Sign Message’.
Note: Once signed and published, your message will be visible on the Ethereum network and cannot be retracted. Avoid including sensitive information.
Open Ethereum App on Ledger:
Open the Ethereum app on your Ledger device.
Sign Message:
Go back to Ledger Live and click ‘Continue’.
Verify the message details on your Ledger device screen.
If the message is correct, navigate to the ‘Sign message’ screen and use the device’s button to sign the message.
Publish Signature:
Return to Etherscan and click ‘Publish’.
Share URL:
Your signature, along with your message and address, will be published on the Ethereum network. Share the URL to demonstrate control of the private keys for the address.
“Fill out the form to send a request to the wallet’s customer service.”