Destination tags
A destination tag (also known as a destination memo or a payment reference), is a feature used in transactions involving XRP. The destination tag is an extra piece of information that is attached to a transaction to help identify the specific recipient of the funds.
Unlike traditional financial systems where transactions can be identified by an account number or a reference number, the XRP Ledger uses a different mechanism for handling transactions. In the XRP Ledger, every transaction must contain a unique destination tag when sending funds to certain types of addresses, including exchanges like BTC Markets.
The primary purpose of the destination tag is to differentiate transactions destined for the same receiving address. When making an XRP payment to an address that requires a destination tag, you need to ensure that you provide the correct destination tag along with the destination address. Omitting or providing an incorrect destination tag may result in a delay or loss of funds, as the receiving party won't be able to attribute the transaction to the appropriate account. It is crucial to include the destination tag when depositing to BTC Markets, as it enables us to identify your specific XRP deposit and correctly credit it to your account. It acts as a reference code or a specific identifier tied to your account.
Whether you're transacting on BTC Markets or elsewhere, always follow the specific instructions provided by the exchange or service regarding the use of destination tags to ensure a smooth and successful XRP transaction. Always double-check the destination tag before sending funds and verify that it corresponds to the intended recipient.
Memos and references
Stellar (XLM) transactions may require a "memo". The memo field a serves a similar purpose as the "destination tag" in the XRP network, but it is not required for every transaction. Instead, it is optional and can be used to add a message, reference number, or any other relevant data to the transaction.
The memo field can be used for various purposes, such as:
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Sending a message: you can attach a memo to a transaction to send a message or a note to the recipient. This can be used for communication purposes, similar to adding a comment to a payment.
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Reference numbers: companies or services that use the Stellar network for payments may include reference numbers or order IDs in the memo field. This helps them track and match transactions to specific orders or invoices.
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Identification: some exchanges, like BTC Markets, require additional information to attribute a deposit to a user's account, they therefore request users to provide a specific memo along with the transaction. This is similar to how destination tags work in the XRP network.
The memo field can accept both plain text and numerical values, depending on the specific use case and requirements of the parties involved. It's important to note that the memo is not encrypted and can be viewed publicly on the Stellar blockchain.
It is crucial to follow any instructions provided by the recipient or service when including a memo in a Stellar transaction. If a memo is required for a transaction, omitting it or providing incorrect information may lead to delays or loss of funds, as the recipient won't be able to identify the transaction correctly.