Get the extension What is a hot wallet?
A hot wallet is a crypto wallet whose private key is stored on a device connected to the internet: a browser extension, a mobile app, a desktop app or an exchange account. It is convenient because it can sign instantly.
Why it matters
Convenience is also the weakness. The key, even encrypted, sits on a machine that runs other software and visits websites. A malicious extension, a clipboard hijacker or a fake update can steal it, and a stolen key can be emptied in seconds, with no way to reverse it.
How Locker Protocol Wallet handles it
Locker Protocol Wallet looks and works like a browser wallet, but it is not a hot wallet: the extension stores no private key. Signing happens on Locker Vault, an offline device, so what an attacker can reach in the browser cannot move your funds.
Questions
Is MetaMask a hot wallet?
Used on its own, yes: MetaMask keeps an encrypted copy of your key in the browser. Paired with a hardware wallet, the key stays on the device and MetaMask only prepares transactions.
Should I stop using hot wallets?
A hot wallet holding a small balance for daily use is a reasonable trade-off. Savings belong on a key that never touches an online device.