Read Before You Sign
Wallet prompts are not routine pop-ups. Each signature is a request for authority, and your safest default is to understand the action before granting it.
What you will learn
- ✓Distinguish connection from signing
- ✓Recognize token approvals
- ✓Avoid unlimited spending limits
- ✓Review and revoke stale permissions
Connection versus authority
Connecting commonly reveals your public address. Signing a message proves control of an address, while signing a transaction can change on-chain state. Read the wallet prompt because similar-looking buttons can request very different powers.
Showing an ID, signing a receipt, and signing power of attorney are not the same act.
Approvals persist
A token approval lets a smart contract spend up to an allowed amount. Some apps request unlimited allowances for convenience, but that increases the damage if the contract or interface is compromised. Prefer the amount needed for the transaction when your wallet supports it.
A one-time purchase should not require handing the store a permanent blank check.
Review and revoke
Old approvals can outlive the app session that created them. Periodically review permissions using a trusted block explorer or approval checker reached from an official source. Revoking a permission is an on-chain transaction and normally requires network fees.
Revoke old approvals like collecting spare keys from former contractors.
Put it into practice
A swap asks for unlimited access to USDC even though Devon only wants to swap $25. Devon changes the allowance to the required amount and confirms the recipient and network before signing.
- 1.Open your wallet settings and find its transaction simulation or warning features
- 2.Review one existing token allowance from a trusted explorer
- 3.Practice explaining the difference between connect, sign message, and sign transaction