MetaMask is a cryptocurrency wallet that enables users to store, send, and receive digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. It is widely used by individual users and businesses to securely store and manage their cryptocurrency funds right from the browser. However, the company recently came under fire for its decision to share user IP addresses with Google Analytics and other 3rd parties. This has led to serious concerns about the security of users’ data and the decentralization of cryptocurrencies in general.

![image.png](https://images.hive.blog/DQmahqBMBPjE3QFEPTJesu7ugtr6h3GeQ5J8fDnDPEEYbeq/image.png)

The idea behind cryptocurrencies is to provide users with an alternative to traditional centralized banking systems which failed us in the past. With cryptocurrencies, users can freely store, send, and receive funds without having to rely on third-party centralized institutions. However, the idea of data sharing with Google Analytics and other centralized and government entities goes against this principle. This type of data could even potentially be used to track user activity, making it easier also for malicious actors to target individuals.

![image.png](https://images.hive.blog/DQmcSaySbxRhbtd4w8yGXgXB3avW2DMXXGn5GdYyEMx8bfX/image.png)

Furthermore, the data collected by Google Analytics could be used to target users with advertisements. This could lead to increased centralization of the cryptocurrency market as users are encouraged to use certain services over others. This could ultimately lead to a situation where only a few companies are able to control the market, reducing the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies. Forget about spam which might be sent towards us, but also that we might be pushed into compulsory information and actions based on our history and interactions.

![image.png](https://images.hive.blog/DQmWR1m7tcVQ4gz2eQ7pH7him9313EsVoqC3hgGibCq2Ae9/image.png)

The MetaMask IP-sharing recordings have highlighted the need for increased security and privacy for users of cryptocurrency wallets. To ensure that users are able to protect their data and maintain the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies, companies should take the necessary steps to ensure that user data is kept secure and private. By doing this, users can rest assured that their data is safe and that they are not being targeted by malicious actors. Thus, I am quite not happy about this path that MetaMask has chosen and will probably limit the interactions and actions with it. **What's your thoughts about it, did you already moved to other alternatives?**

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