How to manage dapp permissions in Coinbase Wallet?

Always review dApp permissions in Coinbase Wallet and revoke access to unused apps to protect your crypto.

Aug 05, 2025 at 04:21 am

Understanding DApp Permissions in Coinbase Wallet

When interacting with decentralized applications (dApps) through Coinbase Wallet, users grant various levels of access to their digital assets and personal data. These permissions allow dApps to perform actions such as reading wallet balances, initiating transactions, and accessing account addresses. Understanding what each permission entails is crucial to maintaining security. When a dApp requests access, Coinbase Wallet displays a prompt detailing the scope of permissions being requested. Users must carefully review these requests before approving. Unauthorized or overly broad permissions can expose funds to potential risks, especially if the dApp is malicious or compromised.

Connecting a dApp to Coinbase Wallet

To manage dApp permissions, the first step is establishing a connection between the dApp and your Coinbase Wallet. Open the dApp in a browser supported by the wallet, such as the built-in browser within the Coinbase Wallet app. When the dApp attempts to connect, a permission request popup appears. This popup includes information about the dApp’s name, URL, and the specific permissions it seeks. Tap "Connect" only if you trust the source. Once connected, the dApp gains the ability to interact with your wallet within the limits of the granted permissions. This connection is stored locally on your device and persists until manually revoked.

Viewing Active dApp Connections

To monitor which dApps currently have access to your wallet, navigate to the "Settings" section within the Coinbase Wallet app. From there, select "Connected dApps" or a similarly labeled option. This screen displays a list of all dApps that have active permissions. Each entry includes the dApp’s name, domain, and date of connection. Tapping on a specific dApp reveals the exact permissions granted, such as "View your wallet address" or "Request transaction approvals". This transparency allows users to audit access and identify any unfamiliar or suspicious connections that may require revocation.

Revoking Permissions for Specific dApps

If you no longer wish to grant access to a particular dApp, you can revoke its permissions at any time. Within the "Connected dApps" menu, locate the dApp you want to disconnect. Tap on it to open the permission details. Look for a button labeled "Disconnect" or "Revoke Access" and confirm the action when prompted. This immediately terminates the dApp’s ability to interact with your wallet. After revocation, the dApp will no longer be able to read your wallet information or request transactions. You can reconnect in the future if needed, but this requires a new permission prompt.

• Open Coinbase Wallet app
• Go to Settings
• Tap Connected dApps
• Select the dApp to disconnect
• Confirm Disconnect action

Managing Permissions During Transaction Requests

Even after granting initial access, every transaction initiated by a dApp must be manually approved by the user. When a dApp requests a transaction, Coinbase Wallet displays a detailed summary including the recipient address, token type, amount, and network fee. This is where transaction-level permissions come into play. Users must scrutinize each request, especially those involving token approvals, which can grant smart contracts ongoing access to specific token balances. To deny a transaction, simply tap "Reject". To approve, verify all details and tap "Confirm". Never approve transactions from unknown or untrusted dApps, as they may drain funds if excessive token allowances are granted.

Best Practices for Secure Permission Management

Maintaining control over dApp permissions requires proactive habits. Always verify the authenticity of a dApp’s website before connecting. Phishing sites often mimic legitimate platforms to steal access. Use bookmarks for trusted dApps to avoid typosquatting. Limit connections to dApps that are necessary and well-audited. Regularly review the Connected dApps list and disconnect unused or suspicious entries. Avoid granting unlimited token approvals; instead, use tools or settings that allow setting precise spending limits. Enable biometric authentication in Coinbase Wallet settings to add an extra layer of protection for transaction approvals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dApp steal my crypto just by being connected?

No, a connected dApp cannot withdraw funds without your explicit approval for each transaction. However, if you approve a malicious token approval transaction, the dApp’s smart contract may gain the ability to transfer your tokens in the future without further permission.

What happens if I lose my phone with active dApp connections?

The dApp connections are stored locally on your device. As long as your wallet recovery phrase remains secure and is not compromised, no one can access your funds from another device. Reinstalling the wallet on a new phone will not restore previous dApp connections unless you restore from a backup.

Is it possible to limit the amount a dApp can spend from my wallet?

Yes, when approving token allowances, you can specify a custom spending limit instead of approving an unlimited amount. This must be done during the transaction approval process, and not all dApps provide this option directly—some require manual adjustment via contract interaction.

Do dApp permissions sync across devices?

No, dApp permissions are not synced across devices. Each installation of Coinbase Wallet maintains its own list of connected dApps. Connecting on a new device requires re-approving permissions, even if you’ve connected before on another phone or tablet.