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MetaMask

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MetaMask
DeveloperConsenSys
Initial release2016; 10 years ago (2016)
Operating systemiOS
Android
PlatformBrowser extension
Mobile app
TypeCryptocurrency wallet
LicenseCustom proprietary license (since 2020; originally MIT open source)
Websitemetamask.io
Repository

MetaMask is a software cryptocurrency wallet developed by ConsenSys for interacting with the Ethereum blockchain and other EVM-compatible networks.[1][2] It enables users to manage Ethereum accounts and connect to decentralized applications (dApps) via a browser extension or mobile app.[3]

As of early 2026, MetaMask reports over 100 million users worldwide.[4]

Overview

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MetaMask allows users to store and manage private keys, send and receive Ethereum-based cryptocurrencies and tokens (including ERC-20 and ERC-721 standards), broadcast transactions, and interact with dApps. dApps connect to the wallet via JavaScript interfaces, prompting users to approve signatures or transactions.[5]

The wallet features **MetaMask Swaps**, an in-app token swap aggregator sourcing liquidity from multiple decentralized exchanges (DEXs), with a service fee of 0.875%.[6]

In 2025, MetaMask introduced the **MetaMask Rewards** program (initially mobile-only), where users earn points for activities such as swaps, bridging, and referrals. Season 1 (October 2025 – January 2026) distributed over $30 million in Linea tokens and other perks to participants.[7][8]

History

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MetaMask launched in 2016 as open-source software under the MIT license.[3] It initially supported browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Mobile versions were in closed beta from 2019 and publicly released for iOS and Android in September 2020.[2][9]

In August 2020, the license changed to a custom proprietary one.[10]

MetaMask Swaps launched on desktop in October 2020 and on mobile in March 2021.[11]

The Rewards program launched in late 2025 with Linea integration.[12]

Criticism

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MetaMask has faced criticism over privacy, including default analytics settings that share some user data (which can be disabled).[13]

Its reliance on Infura (acquired by ConsenSys in 2019) has raised concerns about centralization in Ethereum infrastructure.[14]

The wallet regularly issues warnings about phishing scams and fake airdrops impersonating MetaMask.[15]

References

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  1. ^ Johnson, Steven (2018-01-16). "Beyond the Bitcoin Bubble". The New York Times. Retrieved 2020-11-11.
  2. ^ a b Schroeder, Stan (2020-09-02). "Crypto wallet MetaMask finally launches on iOS and Android". Mashable. Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  3. ^ a b Piore, Adam (2018-11-19). "New Internet: Blockchain Technology Could Help Us Take Back Our Data". Newsweek. Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  4. ^ "MetaMask – Official Website". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  5. ^ "User Guide: Dapps". MetaMask Help Center. Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  6. ^ Schroeder, Stan (2021-03-17). "Crypto wallet MetaMask now lets you swap tokens on your phone". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  7. ^ "Introducing MetaMask Rewards". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  8. ^ "MetaMask Rewards". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  9. ^ Leising, Matthew (2020-09-02). "MetaMask's Blockchain Mobile App Opens Doors For Next-Level Web". Bloomberg News. {{cite news}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  10. ^ Dan Finlay (2020-08-20). "Evolving our License for the Next Wave of MetaMask Users". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  11. ^ Schroeder, Stan (2021-03-17). "Crypto wallet MetaMask now lets you swap tokens on your phone". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  12. ^ "Introducing MetaMask Rewards". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  13. ^ Canellis, David (2019-03-22). "PSA: MetaMask reveals your Ethereum address to sites you visit". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  14. ^ Perez, Yessi Bello (2019-10-04). "ConsenSys acquires Infura". Retrieved 2026-03-19.
  15. ^ "Stay Safe". MetaMask Help Center. Retrieved 2026-03-19.
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