Key takeaways :
- MetaMask has been removed from the Apple App Store, but this removal may only be temporary.
- The cause for the takedown of the Ethereum wallet app remains undisclosed.
MetaMask, a popular cryptocurrency wallet application, experienced a temporary removal from the Apple App Store in the United States over the weekend, only to be swiftly reinstated.
The removal stemmed from an “internal operational error” on MetaMask’s part, not a deliberate action by Apple. Reports emerged on October 14th that the MetaMask app had disappeared from the App Store, and users were unable to download it from the MetaMask website.
According to a MetaMask spokesperson, this issue was unrelated to any security breaches or malicious activities. They reassured users that it was not a security concern, and no actions were required on the users’ part.
The problem appeared to be rooted in Apple’s service policies, as the App Store guidelines prohibit apps from running unrelated background processes, such as cryptocurrency mining. Additionally, Apple restricts apps from utilizing in-app crypto purchases or gating content and features behind cryptocurrency payments.
It’s worth noting that MetaMask had recently introduced a new feature enabling users to deposit funds through a Stripe on-ramp. However, there is no clear indication that this particular addition caused the temporary removal, as the platform had previously offered various fiat on-ramps.”
“We are aware of the issue and actively working to determine its cause while taking swift action to resolve it,” stated Taylor Monahan, the Lead Product Manager of MetaMask, on X. This problem was specific to users attempting to install the app directly from the Apple App Store and will be addressed very shortly.
This statement was subsequently replaced by an official response from the @MetaMask account.
MetaMask assured that the removal of its app was a temporary matter, with a spokesperson stating, “We expect MetaMask to return to the App Store shortly.” They also urged users to report any fake MetaMask apps on the App Store immediately.
MetaMask has encountered previous delistings from various app stores. In July 2018, it faced a temporary removal from Google’s Chrome Web Store without any accompanying explanation. Notably, this removal coincided with a policy change related to mining apps, leading to speculation that cryptocurrency apps, including MetaMask, were inadvertently affected by the store’s actions.
