Alphanumeric characters make up a private key most often. It is generated when a crypto wallet address is created and acts as the password or access code for that wallet. A private key's corresponding wallet, or the money in it, is in the hands of whoever has access to the private key.
A collection of digital addresses and keys that reflect ownership and control of virtual tokens are used to control cryptocurrencies. Any public address accepts deposits of bitcoin or other tokens from anyone. However, although a user has tokens placed into their address, they cannot be withdrawn without the special private key.
There are various configurations for private keys. A private key would include hundreds of digits in base-ten notation, making it impossible to brute-force crack one for years. Private keys are typically written as a string of alphanumeric characters for ease of expression.