This article clarifies how your private keys and recovery phrase remain secure when using the Solana Snap by Solflare through MetaMask. It also explains how recovery phrases function when creating a Solflare account via the Solana Snap.
Security of Private Keys and Recovery Phrases with Solana Snap
The Solana Snap by Solflare operates similarly to a decentralized application (dApp) within your MetaMask wallet. When you interact with Solana blockchain applications through the Snap, it simply requests your permission (signatures) from MetaMask to perform actions. Importantly, the Solflare itself does not have access to your private keys or recovery phrase.
Think of MetaMask as your secure vault, and the Solana Snap as a tool you use within that vault. The Snap leverages the security measures already in place within MetaMask to keep your private information safe.
Exporting Your Recovery Phrase
Since the Solana Snap doesn't store your recovery phrase, you cannot export it directly through the Snap. To access and export your recovery phrase, you'll need to follow these steps within MetaMask settings:
Open MetaMask and access your Settings.
Navigate to the "Security & Privacy" section.
Locate the option to "Reveal Secret Recovery Phrase."
Important Note: Make sure to write down your recovery phrase accurately and store it securely following best practices. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including customer support representatives.
Recovery Phrases with Solflare via Solana Snap
If you created a Solflare account using the Solana Snap feature within MetaMask, then your existing MetaMask recovery phrase also serves as the recovery phrase for your Solflare account.
In essence, the Solflare Snap creates a Solana-specific extension of your MetaMask account. Since both accounts are ultimately derived from the same recovery phrase, they share the same key to access your digital assets.