This guide explains how to diagnose the issue, what to do immediately, and how recovery works in different scenarios (exchange, your own wallet, or someone else’s wallet).

TL;DR – Sent via the Wrong Network?

Using the wrong network is the #1 cause of missing crypto deposits.
Recovery depends on whether the recipient supports the network and controls the private keys.
Immediately collect: TXID, network, address, amount, date.
If sent to an exchange, you’ll likely need to open a support ticket.
If sent to your own wallet (you control the keys), recovery is often much easier.

1) Diagnosis: Which Situation Applies to You?

Find your case below and follow the recommended direction:

Case 1: Exchange or service does NOT support the network you used
Recovery chance: Medium to Low
What to do: Open a support ticket and request manual review. Recovery depends on whether they control private keys for that network.

Case 2: Exchange DOES support the network, but deposit not credited
Recovery chance: High
What to do: Contact support with full transaction details. Often this is a processing or memo/tag issue.

Case 3: Sent to your own wallet on a different network
Recovery chance: Often High
What to do: Add the correct network or token manually inside your wallet interface.

Case 4: Sent to someone else’s wallet
Recovery chance: Depends entirely on the recipient’s cooperation and key access.
What to do: Contact the recipient immediately.

2) First Steps (Do This Immediately)

Locate your TXID (transaction hash) and open it in the correct blockchain explorer.
Confirm the transaction status is Success and has sufficient confirmations.
If it’s still pending, see: Pending / transaction not received guide.
Write down the following details:
- Network used (ERC20, TRC20, BEP20, etc.)
- Recipient address
- Amount sent
- Date and time of transfer

This information is essential for any recovery attempt.

3) If the Recipient Is an Exchange or Online Service

Follow this structured process:

Open a support ticket with the exchange or service.
Attach:
- TXID
- Network used
- Recipient address
- Amount sent
- Screenshot of the deposit page (if available)
Do not create multiple tickets — this may slow down processing.

Important considerations:

Many exchanges can recover funds sent via the wrong network — but only if they control the private keys for that network.
Recovery may involve manual wallet access.
Processing can take days or even weeks.
Some platforms charge a recovery fee.
Recovery is never guaranteed.

4) If the Recipient Is Your Own Wallet

If you control the private keys (e.g., MetaMask, Trust Wallet, hardware wallet), recovery is often significantly easier.

You may need to:

Add the correct network to your wallet.
Manually add the token contract address.
Switch the wallet’s active network view.
Confirm that the address format is compatible across networks.

In many cases, the funds are already there — just not visible in the interface.

5) When Recovery Is Difficult or Impossible

Recovery becomes much harder when:

The recipient does not support the network at all.
The service does not control private keys (custodial limitations).
You sent funds to an incorrect and unrelated address.

This is why network selection is critical before confirming any transaction.

6) How to Avoid Sending via the Wrong Network

Always confirm which network the recipient supports:
Choosing the right network for USDT/USDC.
Send a small test transaction if unsure.
Compare the total cost, not just the network fee:
The all-in cost of a transfer is explained.
Never rush a large transaction.

Saving a small network fee is never worth risking access to your funds.

Common Mistakes

Assuming “the address matches” means the network is correct.
Blaming the service before checking the TXID and blockchain explorer.
Sending another transaction “to fix it” — this can double the problem.
Ignoring network warnings shown on deposit pages.

FAQ – Wrong Network Crypto Transfers

If an exchange doesn’t support the network, is it a 100% loss?

Not necessarily. Some exchanges can manually recover funds, but it depends on their internal procedures and key access.

How long does recovery usually take?

From a few hours to several weeks, depending on the platform and complexity.

Can blockchain transactions be reversed?

No. Blockchain transactions are irreversible. Recovery depends entirely on the recipient’s access to private keys.

How to Prevent This in Walletium

Always verify the recipient’s supported network before sending.
If unsure, send a test transaction first.
Save your TXID — it is your primary proof for support.

Launch Walletium: https://t.me/walletiumbot/walletium

Originally published: January 20, 2026

Last updated: February 12, 2026

What’s Updated in This Version

Expanded diagnosis section for better search intent coverage.
Added irreversible transaction clarification.
Strengthened prevention guidance and FAQ section.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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