Step 1: verify what actually happened
Open the source network's block explorer and confirm the transaction hash, status, token contract, destination address, and network. A wallet balance not appearing does not always mean the assets are gone; the wallet may be connected to the wrong network or may not display the token automatically.
If the transaction is still pending, use only the wallet's documented speed-up or cancellation process. Once a transaction is confirmed, it normally cannot be reversed by the network.
Step 2: identify who controls the destination
When the same private key controls an address on two EVM-compatible networks, the wallet owner may be able to switch to the network where the assets arrived and access them there. This does not apply universally, especially when the source and intended destination use unrelated address systems.
If the destination belongs to an exchange or custodial service, only that service can determine whether it can recover the deposit. Contact it through its official website and provide the public transaction details it requests.
- Self-custody EVM address: check the actual network and token contract in the wallet.
- Custodial address: contact the custodian through verified support channels.
- Unknown or unrelated address: recovery may be impossible without the controlling key holder.
Step 3: avoid making the loss worse
Do not send an additional transaction just because someone claims it will unlock the first one. Do not import a seed phrase into an unfamiliar site, and do not pay an unsolicited recovery agent.
For future swaps, verify both the asset and network, paste the address rather than typing it, compare the beginning and end of the address, and consider a small test transfer when the destination supports it.