How to Set Up and Fund
MetaMask — Step by Step

Install the MetaMask browser extension only from metamask.io or your browser's official extension store, or the official mobile app from the Apple App Store / Google Play. Never install it from a link someone sends you directly.

• I installed MetaMask from an official source

Open the extension, choose "Create a new wallet", and set a strong local password. This password only unlocks MetaMask on this device — it will not recover your funds if you lose the device.

• I created a new wallet and set a device password

MetaMask shows a 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Write it on paper and store it somewhere private and offline — never in a photo, email, cloud note or password manager, and never share it with anyone. Anyone with this phrase has full, permanent control of your wallet.

• I wrote down my recovery phrase on paper
• I stored it offline and told no one

Your wallet address (starting with 0x...) is safe to share so people can send you crypto. Your private key / recovery phrase must never be shared with anyone, for any reason.

• I know the difference between my address and my private key

Click "Buy & Sell" inside MetaMask to purchase crypto through a licensed on-ramp partner using a debit/credit card, and — depending on your country and the provider shown — Apple Pay or Google Pay. You can also send crypto you already own from an exchange like Binance to your MetaMask address.

• I funded my wallet using an official on-ramp or a transfer from my own exchange account

When a legitimate site asks you to "Connect Wallet", MetaMask shows a popup — check which site is asking and what permissions it wants before approving. Never approve a connection or "signature request" you do not understand.

• I know how to review a connection request before approving it

Click "Send", paste the recipient address, and always double-check the first and last characters before confirming — blockchain transactions cannot be reversed once confirmed. Send a small test amount first for a new recipient.

• I know to verify an address before sending and to test with a small amount first

No legitimate job or "task" ever requires you to install MetaMask and then forward incoming crypto to someone else, or to receive a stranger's bank transfer and convert it to crypto for them. If you are ever asked to do this, stop and report it — it is a common pattern used in money-laundering and job scams.

• I understand what MetaMask is never used for in a legitimate job
• I know how to report a suspicious request