The short version
MetaMask lets you connect a self-custody wallet to Web3 sportsbooks and casinos on Ethereum and other EVM networks, and now also supports Solana, with growing access to some non-EVM chains via MetaMask Snaps. For desktop dapps, you typically click Connect and approve via the EIP-1193 provider; on mobile, you often scan a WalletConnect QR. Always set spending caps, audit and revoke token approvals, and confirm fees and network before sending funds. Regulated markets like the UK, Ontario, and Australia impose strict rules: identity checks are required in the UK, crypto deposits aren’t allowed by Ontario-licensed operators, and Australia bans using digital currency to bet with licensed wagering sites.
What MetaMask supports in 2025
MetaMask is natively an EVM wallet and now includes native Solana support, with additional non-EVM networks (including Bitcoin via Snaps) available through MetaMask Snaps. This means most Web3 gambling dapps built for EVM chains work out of the box; for Bitcoin’s UTXO model, support is provided via Snaps rather than direct native transactions. For EVM-compatible “BTC” assets, you interact with wrapped tokens and must not confuse them with native Bitcoin.
Prerequisites: install, backup, and optional hardware wallet
Install MetaMask only from official sources and secure your Secret Recovery Phrase offline; MetaMask cannot recover it if you lose it. For larger balances, connect a Ledger or Trezor hardware wallet to sign transactions while keeping keys off your computer.
Adding and switching networks safely
You can add custom EVM networks in MetaMask manually or let a dapp request it using wallet_addEthereumChain; always verify RPC details before approving any network prompts. You can later remove any added network from settings if you don’t need it.
How connections work: EIP-1193, WalletConnect, and signing
Most sites use the standard EIP-1193 provider to request accounts and prompt transactions. On mobile or cross-device, WalletConnect creates an encrypted session initiated by scanning a QR code; your phone then approves or rejects requests. When a site asks for a signature, prefer EIP-712 typed data where possible; avoid deprecated eth_sign. If a dapp asks for a signature you don’t understand, stop and re-check for phishing.
Deposits and withdrawals: do these checks
- Confirm the sportsbook/casino’s supported networks and tokens, then select that same network in MetaMask before sending funds.
- Send a small test amount first and track it on Etherscan (or the relevant explorer) to confirm the address and network are correct.
- Consider enabling exchange withdrawal address whitelists so only approved addresses can receive your funds.
Gas fees: what you’ll see and how to control them
Ethereum uses EIP-1559 fees with a base fee plus a priority tip. MetaMask shows max fee and max priority fee and allows custom settings if you need faster or cheaper confirmations. Unused fee headroom is refunded automatically.
Token approvals 101: spending caps and revoking access
When you approve an ERC-20 token, a contract can move up to your approved amount from your wallet. Set a custom spending cap instead of unlimited approvals, and periodically revoke unused approvals using tools like Etherscan’s Token Approval Checker or Revoke.cash. Note that disconnecting your wallet from a site does not revoke approvals; you must revoke them separately.
Security hygiene for gambling dapps
Use a dedicated “spending” account for dapps and keep most funds in a hardware-secured account. Watch for address-poisoning scams that insert look-alike addresses into your history; copy your address only from your wallet, not from explorer pages. You can also add transaction-security Snaps that warn about risky contracts before you sign. If anything looks off, stop and re-verify on the official support pages.
Compliance reality check: crypto betting isn’t allowed everywhere
UK-licensed operators must verify your name, address, and date of birth before you gamble. In Ontario, cryptocurrency is not legal tender and licensed operators cannot accept crypto deposits. In Australia, from 11 June 2024 licensed online wagering operators are banned from accepting digital currency and credit cards. If a site claims otherwise while advertising service in those markets, consider that a red flag.
Step-by-step: connect MetaMask to a Web3 sportsbook/casino
- Open the site and click Connect. Choose MetaMask and select the account(s) you want to connect. Review the requested permissions before approving.
- If prompted to switch or add a network, verify the chain details and confirm only if they match the site’s documentation.
- Deposit a test amount on the correct network and confirm on the appropriate block explorer before sending larger amounts.
- When approving tokens, set a precise spending cap aligned to your likely stake size.
- After you finish betting, disconnect the site in MetaMask and revoke any approvals you no longer need.
Advanced: WalletConnect on desktop and mobile
If you use a desktop dapp and a mobile wallet, click the WalletConnect option on the site, scan the QR code with MetaMask Mobile, and approve the session. You’ll receive signing prompts on your phone whenever the dapp requests a transaction or signature.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use native Bitcoin with MetaMask for sportsbooks
MetaMask is EVM-first. You can interact with BTC representations such as wrapped BTC on EVM chains, and you can access non-EVM networks (including Bitcoin) through MetaMask Snaps. Always confirm whether the site accepts native BTC or only EVM tokens.
Is EIP-712 safer than a normal signature
Typed-data signatures provide structured, human-readable signing and are recommended over generic message signing. If you don’t understand a signature request, cancel it.
What’s the difference between disconnecting and revoking
Disconnecting stops a site from seeing your account and suggesting transactions; revoking removes its on-chain allowance to move your tokens. You should do both when you’re done.
How do I track a stuck transaction
Paste the transaction hash into Etherscan to see status and confirmations. If needed, speed up or cancel from your wallet depending on network state.
How do I reduce the risk of mis-sending funds
Use exchange withdrawal address whitelists and test transfers. Confirm the destination network and token each time.
Checklist: safe MetaMask gambling setup
- Install MetaMask and secure your Secret Recovery Phrase offline.
- Connect a hardware wallet for higher stakes.
- Add or switch networks only after verifying RPC details.
- Prefer WalletConnect on mobile; double-check the domain before scanning QR codes.
- Use spending caps, not unlimited approvals; revoke regularly.
- Watch for address-poisoning and signature-phishing warnings.
- Verify legal status for your jurisdiction before depositing.
Editor’s note
This guide is informational, not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always comply with local laws and practice responsible gambling.
