Coinbase Extension – Connect Your Coinbase Wallet Securely

A practical, security-first walkthrough for installing the Coinbase browser extension, connecting your Coinbase Wallet to dApps safely, managing permissions, and troubleshooting common problems.

Why secure connections matter

Browser wallet extensions (like the Coinbase Extension) act as the bridge between your private keys and websites. A safe connection prevents phishing, accidental approvals, and unauthorized asset transfers. Follow these steps to reduce risk whenever you connect your Coinbase Wallet to a site or dApp.

Install the Coinbase Extension — official sources only

Open the official extension store for your browser (Chrome Web Store, Edge Add-ons, or Firefox Add-ons).
Search for "Coinbase Wallet" and verify the publisher is Coinbase or the official listing. Check reviews and install count.
Install the extension and pin it to your toolbar for easy access.

Tip: Avoid installing extensions from third-party sites or clicking links in unsolicited messages. Always confirm the extension page URL and publisher before installing.

Initial setup and recovery

Create or import wallet

You can create a new Coinbase Wallet inside the extension or import an existing wallet using a recovery phrase (seed phrase). If creating new, write down the recovery phrase immediately and store it offline.

Secure your seed phrase

Write the phrase on paper or a metal backup — never store it unencrypted on your device or cloud storage.
Do not share your seed phrase with anyone. Coinbase support will never ask for it.

Understand connection requests and permissions

When a website asks to connect to your wallet, the extension will show a popup. That popup is your control point — it lists which account (address) the site wants to access and what actions it requests (view addresses, sign messages, or request transactions).

View-only access: Safe for most dApps — they can see addresses and balances but not move funds.
Signatures / transactions: Require explicit approval — read the request carefully before accepting.
Never approve unknown transactions: If the popup asks to transfer funds or approve token allowances you didn’t initiate, reject it immediately.

Pro tip: Use separate accounts for active trading vs. dApp experiments so you limit exposure if a dApp is compromised.

Connecting to a dApp — safe workflow

Confirm you are on the correct website domain. Type it manually if unsure.
Click the dApp's "Connect Wallet" button and choose "Coinbase Wallet" when offered.
Review the extension popup: confirm which address is being requested and what permissions are asked for.
Only approve actions you initiated. For transaction approvals, check the recipient address and amount from the popup details.

Managing token allowances

Many dApps request token allowance (permission to spend tokens on your behalf). These allowances can be permanent if you accept. Use the following safeguards:

Grant minimum necessary allowance — where possible, approve only specific amounts.
Use tools to review and revoke allowances periodically (for example, token allowance manager dApps).
When finished using a dApp, revoke or reduce allowances to limit future risk.

Best practices & account hygiene

Keep your browser, extension, and OS updated to reduce security vulnerabilities.
Consider using a hardware wallet and connecting it through Coinbase Wallet when performing large transfers or high-value approvals.
Lock the extension when not in use and use strong, unique passwords for any associated Coinbase account.
Beware of phishing sites — double-check URLs and avoid pasting your seed phrase anywhere online.

Troubleshooting common issues

Extension not showing connect popup: Try reloading the dApp, restarting the browser, or ensuring the extension is enabled and pinned.

Transactions stuck or failing: Check the transaction status on the blockchain explorer, verify gas price, and confirm you selected the correct network (Ethereum vs. testnets).

Unauthorized transaction observed: Immediately revoke approvals, move remaining funds to a new wallet (with a new seed phrase), and review connected sites.

FAQ — Coinbase Extension connections

Q: Can Coinbase support recover my seed phrase?
A: No. Your seed phrase is solely your responsibility. Coinbase cannot recover it for you.

Q: Is it safe to connect to every dApp?
A: Only connect to reputable dApps and always review the requested permissions. Use separate accounts to reduce exposure.

Secure connections are habits — recap

Using the Coinbase Extension safely comes down to careful installation, protecting your seed phrase, inspecting permission popups, managing allowances, and following good browser hygiene. When in doubt, reject requests and investigate. Small habits prevent large losses.

Open Coinbase Wallet