Metamask is one of the most popular and widely used crypto wallets. As a non-custodial wallet, it gives you full control over your assets. However, it also means you alone are responsible for securing your wallet. Logging out when not using your wallet is an essential security measure to prevent unauthorized access. We will show you multiple methods on how to log out of Metamask on mobile and desktop.
Summary
Metamask does not have a separate log-out button. Instead, you need to use the “Lock” button, which logs you out and locks your wallet. On the desktop, the Lock button is found in your account icon. On mobile, it is located in the side menu. You can also log out by turning off the Metamask extension in your browser. Setting an auto-lock timer is another option to automatically log out after a set duration. Logging out denies access to malicious actors trying to steal your crypto assets.
New Information
Metamask recently enabled the auto-lock timer by default for mobile wallets. So your phone app will now automatically log out after 2 minutes of inactivity. For desktop, you need to manually set the auto-lock duration in your Metamask settings. The latest update has also made it easier to find the Lock button on mobile and desktop wallets. These improved security and usability changes will help prevent unauthorized access to user wallets.
How To Log Out Of Metamask Desktop Wallet?
Logging out of the Metamask desktop wallet can be done in a few easy ways:
Using The Lock Button
- Log in to your Metamask browser extension wallet
- Click on the circular account icon on the top right
- Next to “My Accounts”, you will see the Lock icon
- Click on the Lock button to log out of your wallet session
- You will need to enter your password again when logging back in
If you want to add other cryptocurrencies, check out our guide on how to easily add tokens to your Metamask wallet.
Via Browser Extension Menu
- Open your browser extensions menu (Chrome/Firefox)
- Locate the Metamask extension icon
- Right click and select Manage Extensions
- Find Metamask and toggle the switch off to disable it
- This deactivates the extension, logging you out
- Toggle on again to reactivate Metamask
Set An Auto Lock Timer
- Log in to your Metamask wallet
- Go to your account icon > Settings > Advanced
- Scroll down and find the Auto Lock Timer setting
- Set your preferred idle duration before automatic logout
- Metamask will now lock itself after the set idle time
How To Log Out Of Metamask Mobile App
The steps for logging out of the Metamask mobile wallet are simpler:
- Launch the Metamask app and unlock your wallet
- Tap on the 3-line menu icon on the top left
- This opens up the side navigation drawer
- Scroll down and tap on the Lock/Log Out button
- Confirm the prompt to log out of your mobile wallet
An auto-lock timer is enabled by default in Metamask mobile. It is set to 2 minutes. You can customize this duration in App Settings.
If you ever need to delete your wallet, be sure to check out our guide on how to delete your Metamask account. This will help prevent any unauthorized access.
Conclusion
Logging out of your Metamask wallet when not active is vital for security. It prevents unauthorized users from accessing your wallet and draining your crypto assets. Malware attacks can also gain control of logged-in wallets much more easily. The methods outlined above make logging out a quick and simple process. For optimal protection, use a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor to store large amounts of crypto. Hardware wallets provide the best security standard for your digital assets.
FAQs
Does closing the Metamask browser tab log you out?
No, closing the browser tab or Metamask popup will not log you out. You need to explicitly use the Lock button or disable the extension to log out and deny access.
Do I need to log out if my computer/phone has passwords?
Yes, definitely. Password protecting your device does not safeguard your Metamask wallet. Logging out adds an extra layer of protection from malware and hacking attempts targeting crypto wallets.
What happens if I forget to log out?
There is a risk of hacking and theft if you stay logged in to Metamask. To prevent this, use the auto lock timer to automatically log you out after an idle period. The mobile app has this enabled by default, while desktop wallets need it manually enabled.
