ConsenSys’s MetaMask will start collecting users’ data

Published: Nov 25, 2022 at 11:49 am Updated: Nov 28, 2022 at 7:50 am

In Brief

MetaMask developers ConsenSys updated the privacy policy

Infura, the default RPC provider in MetaMask, will collect IP addresses, Ethereum wallet addresses, and other users’ data

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Valeria Goncharenko

Published: 25 November 2022, 11:49 am Updated: 28 Nov 2022, 7:50 am

Leading Ethereum wallet MetaMask will start collecting users’ data. Blockchain software developer ConsenSys, the company behind MetaMask, updated and shared its privacy policy on November 23.

In October 2019, ConsenSys acquired a blockchain tooling and API development company Infura, which now functions as the default Remote Procedure Call provider of MetaMask. With the update, Infura will start collecting customers’ Ethereum wallet addresses and IP addresses during transactions.

“When you use Infura as your default RPC provider in MetaMask, Infura will collect your IP address and your Ethereum wallet address when you send a transaction. However, if you’re using your own Ethereum node or a third-party RPC provider with MetaMask, then neither Infura nor MetaMask will collect your IP address or Ethereum wallet address,” states the updated privacy policy.

ConsenSys will also collect identity information; contact information, including postal address, email addresses, and telephone number; profile information, including preferences, interests, and survey responses; financial information like credit cards, bank account numbers, financial assets holdings, and other payment details; transactions, usage, marketing, and technical information.

However, MetaMask developers decline the fact that the company will collect users’ data.

The language in our privacy policy was updated on November 23rd.

Nothing has changed in the way MetaMask and Infura operate.

Here’s a statement clarifying what we do with user data (spoiler: nothing).https://t.co/4dDKMvcMvv
— MetaMask 🦊💙 (@MetaMask) November 24, 2022

The crypto community reacted negatively to the update. Most crypto influencers, traders, and stakers shared their intention to move to other wallets.

Bonus: Shill me non-metamask EVM wallets as well, as long as they use a non-Infura node!
— Adam Cochran (adamscochran.eth) (@adamscochran) November 24, 2022

According to industry experts, users that wish to continue using MetaMask and do not want their data to be collected should learn how to set up custom Remote Procedure Call providers.

"ConsenSys is committed to maintaining the highest standards when it comes to your privacy"

Also, we collect basically every available piece of data from you other than a DNA sample.

If you aren't using a custom RPC for Metamask, I'd suggest doing so now. pic.twitter.com/WizpplYRFE
— ℭ𝔶𝔭𝔥𝔯.Ξ𝔱𝔥 (@CyphrETH) November 24, 2022

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Consensys, Ethereum, Metamask, Wallet

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Valeria Goncharenko

Valeria is a reporter for Metaverse Post. She focuses on fundraises, AI, metaverse, digital fashion, NFTs, and everything web3-related.Valeria has a Master’s degree in Public Communications and is getting her second Major in International Business Management. She dedicates her free time to photography and fashion styling. At the age of 13, Valeria created her first fashion-focused blog, which developed her passion for journalism and style. She is based in northern Italy and often works remotely from different European cities.You can contact her at [email protected]

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