MetaMask is the most widely used self-custody crypto wallet, a browser extension and mobile app that lets you hold tokens and connect to decentralised apps on Ethereum and compatible networks. It is free, non-custodial, and the default gateway to most of DeFi. This guide explains what it is, how it works, how to set it up safely, and the scams to avoid.
What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet: you hold your own keys, and no company can freeze or access your funds. It runs as a browser extension and a mobile app, and it stores the keys to your crypto while letting you send, receive, and interact with on-chain applications.
It is built for Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains, the large family of networks that use the same technology, including BNB Chain, Polygon, Avalanche’s C-Chain, Arbitrum, and Base. One MetaMask wallet works across all of them by switching networks.
What MetaMask can and cannot do
| MetaMask is good for | MetaMask is not for |
|---|---|
| Holding ETH and EVM tokens | Bitcoin (different network) |
| Connecting to DeFi and dApps | Being a bank or exchange |
| Swapping tokens (built-in) | Storing your seed phrase for you |
| Self-custody of your keys | Recovering funds if you lose the phrase |
For non-EVM assets like Bitcoin or Solana, you need a different or multi-chain wallet. For Solana, for example, Phantom is the common choice.
How to set up MetaMask safely
- Download only from the official source. Get it from metamask.io or your device’s official app store. Fake MetaMask extensions and apps are a common scam.
- Create a new wallet and set a strong password for the device.
- Write down your seed phrase on paper, offline. MetaMask shows you 12 words during setup. This is the master key. See our seed phrase guide.
- Never store the seed phrase digitally and never type it into a website.
- For larger balances, connect a hardware wallet. MetaMask works with Ledger and Trezor, so your keys stay offline while you still use MetaMask’s interface. See Ledger vs Trezor.
The scams to avoid
MetaMask itself is secure. Almost all losses come from users being tricked, so these are the patterns to know.
- Seed phrase theft. No legitimate support, airdrop, or app ever needs your seed phrase. Anyone asking for it is a scammer.
- Fake websites. Phishing sites mimic real dApps to steal approvals. Bookmark official sites; do not trust search ads.
- Malicious approvals. Some contracts request unlimited spending access. Review what you sign, and periodically revoke stale approvals with a tool like Revoke.cash.
- Wrong network sends. Always confirm the asset and network before sending.
Pros and cons
Strengths
- The most widely supported wallet across EVM chains and dApps.
- Free, non-custodial, and easy to start with.
- Works with hardware wallets for stronger security.
Risks
- A hot wallet, so it is online and more exposed than cold storage.
- Full responsibility on you: lose the seed phrase and funds are gone.
- A frequent target for phishing because of its popularity.
Frequently asked questions
Is MetaMask safe? The wallet itself is secure and non-custodial. The main risk is user error or scams, especially seed-phrase theft and phishing sites. Used carefully, with a hardware wallet for larger amounts, it is a solid choice.
Is MetaMask free? Yes. Downloading and using MetaMask is free. You only pay network transaction fees (gas), which go to the blockchain, not to MetaMask.
Can I store Bitcoin in MetaMask? Not natively. MetaMask is built for Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains. Bitcoin runs on a different network and needs a Bitcoin-compatible wallet.
What happens if I lose my seed phrase? Your funds become unrecoverable. The seed phrase is the only way to restore the wallet. Anyone who has it controls your crypto, and no one can recover it for you.
Should I use a hardware wallet with MetaMask? For meaningful balances, yes. Connecting a Ledger or Trezor keeps your keys offline while still using MetaMask’s interface, which greatly reduces risk. See our wallets guide.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. See our editorial policy.