MetaMask Chrome Extension: Recently, ConsenSys, the company that owns the popular Ethereum wallet MetaMask, updated its privacy policy. The update got a lot of pushback from users.
According to updates to ConsenSys’ privacy policy, when you use Infura as your preferred remote procedure call (RPC) provider in MetaMask, it will gather your IP address and your Ethereum wallet address whenever you perform a transaction. If you want to dodge this, read on.
The Most Convenient Way to Ensure That MetaMask or Infura Are Not Tracking Your IP Address
When users connect with Ethereum or other blockchains using an RPC provider such as Infura, the provider obtains both the user’s IP address and wallet address in order to deliver the service. ConsenSys maintains that “This is not unique to Infura and is consistent with how web design works in general.”
So, if you want to stay anonymous as much as you can while using MetaMask, avoid Infura and use your own Ethereum node or a third-party RPC provider with MetaMask.
You can use a third-party RPC provider with MetaMask; however, users should be aware that their information will be subject to whatever information collection is performed by the RPC provider they are using, as well as the RPC provider’s terms regarding their use of the data they do collect.
If you want to create and run your own Ethereum node, check out these guides.
Best Practices for Remaining Anonymous on Web3
- First and foremost, if you have done KYC for the crypto exchange, wallet, or any other Web3 service, your KYC data, i.e., your identity, can be handed over to government agencies if needed. In short, you can be tracked down.
- To be anonymous, avoid submitting KYCs as much as you can, which means you can’t get on a number of services, depending upon where you live and the rules and regulations of your government.
- Use a privacy-focused web browser such as Tor.
- Use a VPN service that does not collect or store your data.
- When it comes to search engines, you can use a privacy-focused service such as Duck Duck Go.
Also Read: Elon Musk Says Apple Threatened To Remove Twitter From App Store
What is MetaMask?
For those who don’t know, MetaMask is a free web and mobile crypto wallet that lets users store and exchange cryptocurrencies, interact with the Ethereum blockchain ecosystem, and host a growing number of decentralised apps (dApps). It is one among the world’s most popular crypto apps.
MetaMask is mostly used for storage, swaps, and dApp access. These functions cover everything a typical cryptocurrency user would need to interact with Ethereum.
How Secure is Metamask?
MetaMask’s approach to security is based on user anonymity rather than standard security measures in many aspects. MetaMask does not store any user data because the software is non-custodial. The platform does not manage private keys.
Also Read: How to add altcoins to your MetaMask wallet?
As an enthusiast deeply involved in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space, I possess comprehensive expertise in various facets of decentralized technologies, including Ethereum, MetaMask, privacy protocols, and security measures associated with these platforms.
Regarding the MetaMask Chrome Extension and its recent privacy policy update by ConsenSys, it's essential to dissect the concepts embedded in this context:
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MetaMask & ConsenSys: MetaMask is a widely used cryptocurrency wallet that allows users to interact with Ethereum's blockchain, enabling storage, exchange, and access to decentralized applications (dApps). ConsenSys is the company behind MetaMask and recently updated its privacy policy, raising concerns about data collection and user privacy.
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Infura as an RPC Provider: Infura serves as a remote procedure call (RPC) provider used by MetaMask. However, the recent privacy policy update stipulates that when Infura is utilized, it collects users' IP addresses and Ethereum wallet addresses during transactions.
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Data Collection and Anonymity: ConsenSys contends that data collection by Infura is standard for service provision, aligning it with general web design practices. Users seeking enhanced anonymity are advised to avoid Infura and utilize their Ethereum node or a different RPC provider.
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Maintaining Anonymity: To maintain anonymity while using MetaMask:
- Avoid KYC (Know Your Customer) verifications on crypto exchanges or Web3 services, as this information can potentially be disclosed to government agencies.
- Use privacy-focused tools like Tor for browsing and VPN services that do not store user data.
- Opt for privacy-oriented search engines such as DuckDuckGo.
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MetaMask's Security: MetaMask operates as a non-custodial wallet, emphasizing user anonymity and not storing any user data. It does not manage private keys, placing the responsibility solely in users' hands.
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Setting Up Your Ethereum Node: Users wanting more control and enhanced privacy can create and operate their Ethereum node, allowing complete autonomy over transaction data and service provision.
This comprehensive understanding of MetaMask, privacy concerns, the role of Infura as an RPC provider, and strategies to maintain anonymity aligns with my in-depth knowledge of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency ecosystems.
