The MetaMask ethereum wallet went offline on October 14 for several hours in the Apple App Store, raising concerns about its removal. MetaMask claims to have over 30 million users. The wallet is connected to a variety of Web3 decentralized applications (DApps)
On October 14, reports emerged that the MetaMask app was no longer appearing on the App Store. Apple users were also unable to download the app from the MetaMask website.
According to a MetaMask spokesperson, the issue is not related to any security incident or malicious activity:
“We are aware that MetaMask is not currently available for download on the App Store. This issue is not related to any malicious activity. Our dedicated team is working diligently to resolve this as quickly as possible. Importantly, this is not a security issue. security., and no commitment or action is required from users. Furthermore, it is not related to the functionality of the application.”
Apple’s service policies are likely behind the app’s disappearance. According to market guidelines, it does not allow applications to run “unrelated background processes” such as cryptocurrency mining.
According to MetaMask, the removal of their app was only temporary. “We anticipate MetaMask will return to the App Store shortly,” a spokesperson said minutes before the app went back online, adding that any fake MetaMask apps on the App Store should be reported immediately.
MetaMask faces the challenges of Big tech markets for the second time. In December 2019, the company was suspended from the Google Play app store for allegedly violating the company’s financial services guidelines. Google cited its policy prohibiting cryptocurrency mining on mobile devices and quickly rejected an appeal from MetaMask to overturn the ban.
Apple’s guidelines also require app developers to share 30% of transaction revenue. For crypto companies, including those that want iOS users to be able to purchase non-fungible tokens (NFTs), Apple’s 30% tax has also been a barrier.
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