22.07.2025 00:47

A critical bug within the MetaMask browser extension has been identified, causing excessive data overwriting on users' solid-state drives (SSDs), potentially leading to premature drive failure. Reports from numerous users highlight the issue, with some experiencing data writes exceeding 500 gigabytes daily.

The problem, initially brought to light by a GitHub user under the handle ripper31337, affects Chromium-based browsers like Google Chrome and Opera. The relentless overwriting focuses on the Local Extension Settings folder, specifically targeting files such as 011717.log, 011719.ldb, and MANIFEST-000001, at a concerning rate of 5 MB/s. This constant write cycle significantly surpasses the typical workload for an SSD, accelerating wear and tear.

While reports surfaced recently, some users, including one identified as Michael S, had reported the issue as early as March 2025, suggesting the problem has persisted for some time. Users have reported experiencing performance degradation, further corroborating the severity of this data-intensive bug. Notably, the excessive data logging commences simply by activating the browser, regardless of whether the MetaMask extension itself is actively used. Currently, the only reliable solution is uninstalling the extension.

Consensys, the developers of MetaMask, acknowledged the issue in a statement to the press, although they downplayed its impact by claiming it only affects a small portion of their user base. They assured users that a patch is forthcoming, promising a swift resolution to this significant problem. This assures users that the issue is being actively addressed, though the lack of a concrete timeline for the patch remains a source of concern for affected users.