MetaMask, a web and mobile crypto wallet that allows users to store and swap cryptocurrencies, was temporarily removed from the Apple App Store for several hours. MetaMask is connected to several Web3 decentralized applications (DApps) and has a claimed customer base of approximately 30 million users.
On October 14, reports emerged from several news media outlets that the MetaMask is no longer visible on the Apple App Store, and Apple users were also unable to download the MetaMask application from its website. It created uncertainty among many MetaMask users regarding whether or not the application was removed for good from the Apple App Store.
According to a MetaMask representative, the removal was not caused by any security breach allegations or any malicious activity. The spokesperson said that MetaMask isn’t currently available for download on the App Store, and the company is looking to address the issue behind it. He claimed that the incident isn’t related to any malicious activity and the team is working to resolve the issue as soon as possible. He also stressed that security isn’t a concern and no compromise or action is required on the user’s part. Lastly, he also stated that the issue was unrelated to the app’s functionality either.
Some experts believe that Apple’s service policies may be the reason behind the app’s disappearance from the App Store because Apple doesn’t allow applications to run unrelated background processes such as crypto mining.
MetaMask apologized to its users for the temporary unavailability of service and also asked them to report any duplicate application they viewed on the App Store. “We anticipate that MetaMask will be back on the App Store shortly, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this temporary unavailability may have caused. If users come across any fake MetaMask apps on the App Store, we kindly ask them to report those immediately.”: said a MetaMask representative.
This isn’t the first time that a MetaMask application has been suspended from an application store. In December 2019, the company faced suspension from Google Play’s app store for allegedly violating their financial services guidelines. MetaMask appeal for reversing the ban was also rejected by Google, and the Tech Giants stated their policy of not allowing cryptocurrency mining on mobile devices as the main reason for banning MetaMask from the platform.
The MetaMask application is currently available on the Apple App Store. The reason for its disappearance was stated to be an operational error on the company’s end which has been resolved now.
