For a full walkthrough and visual explanation, watch this YouTube guide:
MetaMask now supports shielded Zcash (ZEC) via the ChainSafe-developed Zcash Snap, allowing you to send, receive, and manage private ZEC directly in your browser wallet. Audited by Hacken and listed in the official MetaMask Snaps Directory, it requires no separate Zcash software - only MetaMask and the Snap.
Prerequisites
MetaMask Extension (desktop only) - Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
MetaMask Account - Seed phrase secured; Snap derives Zcash keys from it.
Stable Internet Connection - For syncing with the Zcash network.
Funds - ETH to swap for ZEC or ZEC from an exchange.
Tip: Protect your MetaMask recovery phrase - it controls both ETH and ZEC.
Swap ETH -> ZEC - Use services like LeoDex and send to your shielded address. Exchange Withdrawal - Withdraw purchased ZEC to your WebZjs shielded address.
=> Use shielded (z) addresses for full privacy.
5. Send / Receive ZEC
In WebZjs, go to Transfer Balance.
Enter:
Code-highlight
- Shielded recipient address
- Amount
Confirm transaction in MetaMask (sign the transaction).
Received funds will appear in WebZjs after confirmation.
6. Verify / Troubleshoot
Check WebZjs for updated balances (MetaMask has not listed ZEC directly) .
If issues occur:
Code-highlight
- Confirm you have the official ChainSafe Snap.
- Check correct network settings.
- Ensure correct address format.
- Reconnect via **Connect Snap** if needed.
Security Tip: Only install the audited ChainSafe Snap; review permissions before approval.
7. Check Address Components
Go to the Receive section - your Unified Address will be displayed by default.
Use the latest MetaMask version - public release supports Snaps.
Shielded proofs may take time, WebAssembly handles computation in-browser.
Recovery is simple,install MetaMask and the Snap, then import your existing seed.
The Snap defaults to shielded ZEC, transparent addresses are not the focus.
Use zcashblockexplorer.com for transaction confirmations.
