SECURITY

Metamask privacy and security features update! One-click phishing detection activation, RPC provider updates

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Metamask privacy and security features update! One-click phishing detection activation, RPC provider updates

To become the standard setter for user privacy, security, and transparency, leading cryptocurrency wallet Metamask has introduced several new features. Not only can it help users detect phishing attacks, but it can also quickly change RPC providers to prevent personal data leaks.

Metamask Multiple New Feature Updates

Blockchain software developer ConsenSys updated its privacy policy in November last year. When users use Infura as the default RPC remote procedure call provider for MetaMask, Infura will collect users' IP and Ethereum wallet address when users send transactions. This update sparked discussions within the community at the time, raising concerns about potential data leaks even when using decentralized wallets.

To address this issue and enhance user security and privacy, Metamask has introduced several related new features, all accessible under the Security & Privacy section.

1. Change RPC Provider

When creating a wallet, users can click on Set advanced privacy settings to change their RPC provider, and existing wallets can also be modified under the Security & Privacy section. However, Ethereum's RPC cannot be changed, and other blockchains do not offer multiple RPC default options. This feature is more of a warning for users to consider different RPC providers and the privacy implications (IP address and wallet address exposure).

2. Phishing Attack Prevention

Users can now enable network phishing detection, which will issue alerts when potential attacks are detected. However, this feature relies on third-party service providers and requires users' IP addresses.

3. Display Incoming Transactions

Through the blockchain browser Etherscan's service, Metamask can display incoming transactions. This feature also requires users' IP addresses.

4. Token Auto-Detection Feature

Using a third-party API, Metamask will automatically detect and display new tokens received in wallets. If users prefer not to automatically receive external data, they can choose to disable this feature.