SafePal Extension Guide for MetaMask Users
Independent migration and access guide: how MetaMask users can safely set up the SafePal browser extension, import accounts, manage seeds, and use Web3 dApps securely.
Quick overview
If you currently use MetaMask and want to try the SafePal browser extension, this guide walks through safe import options, seed handling, hardware backup recommendations, dApp access, and common pitfalls. The instructions emphasize security first: do not expose seed phrases, verify downloads, and prefer hardware-backed storage for large balances.
Two safe approaches to access your MetaMask accounts in SafePal
- Export & import via private key (single account) — cautious approach.
Export a single account private key from MetaMask only when necessary (small test amounts first). Importing private keys exposes that key in clipboard/memory — do this on a secure machine and remove the key from clipboard immediately. Best for quick testing, not bulk migration. - Restore using your seed phrase (all accounts) — recommended only with strong precautions.
If you choose to restore your MetaMask HD seed into the SafePal extension, do so only in a secure environment and understand that restoring the seed will expose all accounts derived from that seed. Prefer to generate a new seed on the SafePal device and transfer funds instead of migrating your primary seed.
Step-by-step: recommended safe workflow (generate new SafePal seed)
- Install SafePal extension from the official source. Verify the extension’s official page and reviews; prefer the browser store page linked from the vendor’s official domain.
- Create a new wallet in SafePal (generate seed on-device/extension). Generating a new seed gives you separation between MetaMask and SafePal keys—this reduces cross-system risk.
- Back up the new seed safely. Write the seed on paper and, ideally, press it into a metal backup. Store copies in two geographically-separated secure locations.
- Transfer small test amounts. Send a small amount from your MetaMask account to the newly-created SafePal account to confirm addresses and flows.
- Consider hardware backup for large balances. For large funds, keep keys in hardware or use hardware signing supported by SafePal if available.
If you must import (risks & mitigation)
Importing private keys or restoring seeds is convenient but increases exposure. If importing, follow these mitigations:
- Do it on a trusted, malware-free machine.
- Never take photos of seed phrases or store them in cloud sync folders.
- Use a password manager for any exported keystore JSON and delete files after import.
- Rotate keys: after transfer, consider creating a new seed and moving funds, then decommission the imported key.
dApp access & permissions
When connecting SafePal extension to dApps, always verify the origin (URL), read permission prompts closely, and limit approvals. Use watch-only addresses as needed to inspect balances without giving signing rights.
Practical checklist before migration
- Save MetaMask seed safely (if you still need it) and confirm it recovers accounts.
- Create a new SafePal seed wherever possible and treat it as the canonical backup for that wallet.
- Test small transfers, then sweep funds rather than leaving duplicates across wallets.
- Revoke old approvals in MetaMask after moving funds to reduce attack surface.
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