MetaMask is a self-custodial wallet
Head to MetaMask Learn for a straightforward learning experience designed specifically for newcomers to web3. It's completely free, available in multiple languages, and includes useful tools such as simulations to help you find your feet with MetaMask.
MetaMask is a self-custodial (also commonly referred to as non-custodial) crypto wallet. It gives you complete control of your access keys and therefore your assets.
'Self-custodial' refers to the fact that it's you ('self') who holds your wallet's private key(s). A self-custodial wallet eliminates the third party between you and your crypto-assets, which is more suitable for some people.
MetaMask does not store your Secret Recovery Phrases or private keys, and cannot access them. Please store your Secret Recovery Phrase and private keys offline and back them up.
If you've connected your Google or Apple account to MetaMask, your SRP is sharded across five different and encrypted. Only the combination of your Google/Apple account and your password can decrypt and access your SRP; MetaMask cannot access it for you.
For more detail on this topic, see our blog post here.
You should be highly sceptical of any emails you receive claiming to be from us. We don't send you emails unless you've signed up for newsletters or have an open Support ticket. You also will not receive any kind of confirmation email when you create a new account, or connect your Google/Apple account to MetaMask.
We will never ask for your Secret Recovery Phrase (seed phrase), private keys, or password.
Because of MetaMask's self-custodial design, we cannot access your wallet from our side. You are the only person who can access it directly from the Extension or Mobile app.
Learn more about your Secret Recovery Phrase and how to keep your account safe here.