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SafePal Browser Extension Guide - Complete Information Resource
Safepal wallet extension privacy policy and user guide
Safepal Wallet Extension Privacy Policy Analysis and Setup Instructions
Install the SafePal dApp; safepal-extension.cc, Wallet Extension directly from the official Chrome Web Store or Safepal website to guarantee you have the authentic software. This simple step protects you from fraudulent copies designed to steal your recovery phrase. Once added to your browser, the extension creates a secure environment for interacting with decentralized applications without needing your private keys to leave the device.
Your privacy hinges on the 12-word mnemonic seed phrase generated during setup. Write these words down in the exact order on physical paper and store them somewhere safe; digital screenshots or cloud storage expose this key to theft. The extension itself operates non-custodially, meaning Safepal cannot access your funds or data–you hold complete responsibility and control over your assets.
The extension requests specific permissions to function, such as reading website data to connect with dApps and managing clipboard content for address copying. You can adjust connection approvals for each site in the settings. For heightened security, pair the extension with a Safepal Hardware Wallet; this combination keeps private keys permanently offline while using the browser interface for transactions, requiring physical confirmation for every action.
Regularly review connected sites in the extension's application settings and revoke access for those you no longer use. This limits potential exposure from dormant connections. Your transaction history and balances are queried from the blockchain through secure RPC nodes, but you can configure custom endpoints for increased speed or privacy within the network settings menu.
Data Collection and Local Storage by the Safepal Extension
Your data primarily stays on your device. The Safepal extension is designed to operate with a high degree of local privacy, meaning it processes and stores sensitive information directly in your browser.
We store your encrypted wallet data locally within your browser's storage. This includes your encrypted private keys, transaction histories, and saved wallet addresses. Since this data is local, you control it; it does not automatically sync to our servers or other devices.
The extension requires access to view and interact with websites you visit. This permission allows it to detect blockchain transactions and present you with signing requests. It does not grant permission to log your browsing activity or collect personal data from websites.
For functionality, the extension may connect to Safepal's servers or decentralized nodes to fetch current cryptocurrency prices, broadcast signed transactions to the blockchain, and update token lists. This network communication does not typically involve transmitting your personal identifiers or wallet secrets.
You can manage your local data through your browser's settings. Clearing your browser's extension data will remove all wallet information. Ensure you have your secret recovery phrase backed up securely before performing any cleanup, as local data loss is permanent without it.
Regularly update your extension. Updates often include security improvements that protect the local storage of your data. Always download the official extension from trusted sources like the Chrome Web Store to avoid malicious software.
Security of Private Keys and Seed Phrases in Your Browser
Never allow your browser to store your seed phrase or private keys. Autofill suggestions and saved form data are vulnerabilities; your recovery phrase should only exist in your memory and on physical, offline media.
Your browser extension operates in an isolated environment. The private keys generated and used for signing transactions never leave this secure zone. They are not accessible to website scripts or other extensions, providing a critical layer of separation between your sensitive data and the web pages you visit.
Treat any request for your 12 or 24-word recovery phrase as an attack. The extension will never ask for it. This phrase is the master key to your wallet; entering it into any website, form, or software other than the official extension during a verified recovery process will result in permanent fund loss.
Maintain a clean digital workspace. Regularly update your browser and the SafePal extension to patch known security flaws. Use dedicated browser profiles for crypto activities and avoid installing unnecessary extensions, as they can sometimes request excessive permissions that compromise security.
For long-term storage, rely on hardware. Write your seed phrase on a durable material like stainless steel and store it securely offline. Consider a hardware wallet for large holdings, as it keeps keys completely separate from internet-connected devices while still allowing you to use the browser extension for convenient transaction previews.
Connecting to dApps and Managing Transaction Approvals
Always verify the full URL of a dApp before connecting your SafePal wallet. Bookmark trusted sites to avoid phishing attempts.
When a dApp requests a connection, the extension shows a detailed permission screen. This screen lists the actions the dApp wants to perform. Review these permissions carefully:
See your wallet balance and activity. Most dApps require this.
Request approval for transactions. This is standard for interactions.
Request to add new tokens. This is less common; be cautious.
You can connect multiple wallets to a single dApp. Use the account selector in the extension to choose which wallet address interacts with the site. This keeps assets for different purposes separate.
For managing active connections, open the SafePal extension and navigate to the 'Connected Sites' section. Here you can:
See a list of all websites with access.
Review the permission level and connection date for each.
Revoke access for any site instantly with one click.
Transaction approvals are your final control point. A pop-up will appear for every transaction, showing:
The exact amount of cryptocurrency or tokens involved.
The network (like BNB Chain or Ethereum) and gas fee.
The recipient's address. Check the first and last few characters.
A data field for smart contract calls; you can expand it to see function details.
If any detail looks incorrect or unfamiliar, reject the transaction. Confirm only when you understand and agree with all parameters. Adjust the gas fee within the approval pop-up if the network supports it to speed up or reduce the cost of your transaction.
Regularly clear permissions for dApps you no longer use. This practice minimizes your exposure and keeps your wallet's access list current.
Importing an Existing Wallet or Creating a New Wallet
Choose "Create Wallet" if this is your first time using a self-custody wallet. The extension will generate a unique 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP). Write each word in its exact order on the provided offline backup card. This phrase is your wallet; anyone with it can control your assets. Never save it digitally–no screenshots, emails, or cloud notes.
Select "Import Wallet" to regain access to an existing Safepal or compatible wallet. You will need your original 12 or 24-word SRP. Type the words carefully in the exact sequence, paying close attention to spelling. The extension also supports importing via a Safepal S1 hardware wallet connection or a private key, though the SRP method is most common.
After creating a new wallet, you must complete a mandatory backup check. The extension will ask you to select a few words from your SRP in the correct order. This step ensures you have a reliable backup before depositing any funds. You cannot skip this verification.
For imported wallets, immediately verify that all your expected accounts and assets appear correctly. Check the transaction history to confirm everything loaded properly. If you notice any discrepancies, disconnect from the internet and re-import the wallet using your backup on a secure device.
Regardless of your choice, set a strong password for the extension itself. This password encrypts your wallet data locally on your browser. It does not recover your SRP; you need both to manage your wallet securely. Change this password periodically for added security.
Configuring Network Settings and Managing Token Display
Open your SafePal extension and click the network name at the top of the main interface, like "Ethereum Mainnet". This opens the full network list where you can add or switch chains.
For networks not shown by default, select ‘Add Custom Network’. You must enter all details accurately: Network Name, RPC URL, Chain ID, Currency Symbol, and Block Explorer URL. Obtain this information from the official project documentation of the network you wish to add; an incorrect RPC URL will prevent connection.
After adding a network, it becomes available for selection. You can reorder your preferred networks by dragging them in the list, keeping your most-used chains easily accessible at the top.
To control which assets appear in your portfolio, visit the ‘Token List’ section under settings. Here, you will see two main lists: ‘Default’ and ‘Custom’. The Default list automatically shows major tokens on each connected network.
If a standard token is not visible, use the ‘Add Token’ feature on the main asset page. Search for the token by its contract address for absolute accuracy, as names can be similar. Always verify the contract address with a block explorer before adding to avoid scams.
You can hide any token, even from the Default list, by clicking the star or eye icon next to it. This removes it from your main view without affecting your balance. Hidden tokens are moved to your Custom list, where you can restore them later if needed.
Regularly review your Custom Tokens list. Remove any entries you no longer need to maintain a clean and relevant asset overview. This practice helps you quickly identify your genuine holdings.
For advanced management, use the ‘Manage Token Lists’ option. You can subscribe to community-maintained lists for broader token discovery, but always research the source of any third-party list to ensure its reliability and security.
FAQ:
Does the Safepal extension have access to my private keys or recovery phrase?
No, it does not. The Safepal wallet extension, like the hardware wallet, is designed so your private keys and recovery phrase never leave your device. They are not stored on your computer's hard drive, in the browser, or on Safepal's servers. The extension creates a secure, isolated environment within your browser to process transactions, but the critical signing operation always requires confirmation on your linked Safepal hardware device. Your keys remain solely under your control.
What information does Safepal collect when I use the browser extension?
According to its privacy policy, the extension may collect certain non-personal, operational data. This can include your public wallet address (which is public blockchain information), anonymous interaction data with the extension's interface, browser type, and version for compatibility. It may also collect on-chain transaction data, which is inherently public. Safepal states it does not collect personally identifiable information like your name or email through the extension's basic operation. However, if you use integrated services like their swap feature, third-party providers involved in the transaction may have their own data collection practices.
I connected my wallet to a website and now I'm worried. What should I do?
First, disconnect the website from the extension. You can usually do this within the website's interface or by revoking the connection in the extension's "Connected Sites" settings. Then, carefully review the transaction permissions you granted. If you signed a malicious transaction, your funds could be at risk. For significant holdings, consider moving them to a new wallet address generated from your recovery phrase. Regularly use the extension's permission review tool to see which contracts have spending allowances and revoke any you don't recognize or need.
How do I set up the Safepal extension with my existing hardware wallet?
Install the extension from the official Chrome Web Store or Safepal's website. Open it and select "Connect Hardware Wallet." You will need your physical Safepal device and its USB cable. The extension will guide you to unlock the hardware wallet and select the blockchain networks you want to use. The process establishes a secure link without exposing your private keys. Ensure you are on the official extension page and never enter your recovery phrase into the browser extension at any point during this setup.
Can I use the extension without a Safepal hardware device?
Yes, but with a key difference in security. The extension can function as a standalone software wallet, where you would create or import a wallet using a recovery phrase. In this mode, your private keys are encrypted and stored on your computer. This is less secure than using a hardware wallet, as your keys could be exposed if your computer is compromised by malware. The hardware wallet model is strongly recommended because it keeps your keys completely offline, using the extension only as a transaction interface.
Does the Safepal extension store or have access to my private keys or recovery phrase?
No, the Safepal wallet extension does not store, transmit, or have access to your private keys or recovery phrase. These remain securely encrypted and stored only on your connected Safepal hardware device. The extension acts as an interface to broadcast transactions that you physically sign and approve on the hardware wallet itself. Your private secrets never leave the hardware device.