Is MetaMask Safe? — Extension Safety Profile

To function as a cryptocurrency wallet that interacts with decentralized applications across the web, MetaMask requests broad host permissions covering all websites, WebSocket connections, and local files. It can read and modify data on any page you visit, inject scripts, display notifications, copy text to your clipboard, and use extensive storage. The addition of cookies and webRequest goes somewhat beyond a minimal wallet’s needs, giving it the ability to monitor and alter network requests and website cookies—increasing its visibility into your browsing activity.

Crypto wallets are prime targets for phishing pages and look‑alike extensions. Always confirm you installed the genuine extension from the official store listing by checking the publisher name carefully. Never enter your recovery phrase on a website or share it with anyone, even if prompted by what appears to be wallet support. Because wallet extensions have deep access to web pages, an compromised extension could capture sensitive data or transactions. Keep your browser and operating system current, and avoid interacting with unfamiliar dApps while your wallet is unlocked.

According to the fact sheet, the extension’s Permissions & Access score is its weakest dimension (52%), reflecting the unusually broad permissions. In contrast, Maintenance & Ownership scored a perfect 100%, highlighting that the extension is actively maintained by a well‑known publisher (Consensys) and receives frequent updates. This combination means you trade a higher inherent permission risk for the assurance of steady, transparent development.