Brave is a Chromium based browser that blocks ads, trackers and many malicious scripts by default, with no extension required. For crypto users this matters because malicious search ads and tracking scripts are two of the main delivery routes for wallet drainers. It also includes a built in self custody wallet.
Brave Browser
Download Brave and browse with tracking and malicious script blocking on by default.
Get BraveReferral disclosure. The link above is a referral link. If you sign up through it, Orca Crypto may receive a commission at no additional cost to you, and in some cases you receive a bonus as well. This does not change what we write. We list the drawbacks of every platform on this page, and we would tell you the same things over a coffee.
Why this matters more in crypto
In most of the web, a tracker is a privacy annoyance. In crypto, the browser is where you sign transactions that move real money, and the attacks arrive through exactly the channels a default browser leaves open.
Malicious search ads
Attackers buy ads for wallet and exchange names. The ad outranks the real site and leads to a pixel perfect clone. Brave blocks the ad entirely.
Drainer scripts
Many wallet drainers load from known malicious domains. Brave Shields block a large share of them before they execute.
Fingerprinting
Sites build a profile from your browser configuration. Brave randomizes the signals that make you identifiable.
What you get
| Feature | What it does |
|---|---|
| Shields | Blocks ads, trackers and known malicious scripts by default, with per site controls |
| Built in wallet | A self custody wallet with no extension to install, which removes one class of fake extension risk |
| Tor windows | Route a private window over Tor for stronger anonymity |
| HTTPS upgrades | Forces encrypted connections where available |
| Chromium base | Every Chrome extension works, and the interface will feel familiar immediately |
| Brave Rewards | Optional. Opt in to privacy preserving ads and earn BAT. Entirely skippable |
The built in wallet
Brave Wallet is native to the browser rather than an extension. That matters because fake wallet extensions are a recurring attack, and there is nothing to install here.
It supports Ethereum and EVM chains, Solana, Bitcoin and Filecoin, and works with hardware wallets. It is capable and not as feature rich as Rabby for transaction simulation or Phantom for Solana specifically. Using both is fine.
Honest assessment
Strengths
Why we recommend it
- Meaningful protection on by default, with nothing to configure
- Noticeably faster page loads because it is not downloading trackers
- Self custody wallet with no extension to be spoofed
- All Chrome extensions work, so switching costs almost nothing
Weaknesses
Fair criticisms
- Aggressive blocking occasionally breaks a site, and you have to toggle Shields
- The BAT and rewards side is not for everyone. It is optional and can be ignored
- Brave has had public controversies over past product decisions, which are worth reading about
- The built in wallet is good rather than best in class
Common questions
Is Brave actually safer for crypto?
It removes two common attack routes by default: malicious search ads and known drainer scripts. That is a real reduction in risk, and it is not a replacement for bookmarks, verification and a wallet that simulates transactions.
Do I have to use Brave Rewards?
No. It is entirely opt in and the browser works fully without it.
Can I keep using MetaMask in Brave?
Yes. Brave is Chromium based, so every Chrome extension works. Many people use Brave with MetaMask or Rabby and never touch the built in wallet.
Where to go next
Want a hand setting it up?
We do this on a screen share, in about an hour, including two factor authentication, a first purchase and moving funds to a wallet you control.