MetaMask has confirmed a $30 million rewards program, distributing LINEA tokens to users through a structured points system aimed at boosting engagement ahead of its native token launch. The initiative, backed by ConsenSys founders Aaron Davis and Joe Lubin, awards points based on trading activity: 80 points per $100 in spot trades, 10 points per $100 in perpetual trades, and 250 points per $1,250 in historical volume. Activities on the LINEA network earn double points, signaling a push to drive cross-chain interaction to this ConsenSys-supported layer-2 protocol.
However, the program has sparked backlash from long-time users who argue it prioritizes fee generation over fairness. One X user, Taco, criticized the system as "stupid" and suggested a simple airdrop would have been better. MetaMask clarified that this is not a yield-farming mechanism but a long-term community rewards system, with assurances that loyal users will receive special benefits.
Simultaneously, security concerns emerged when Yu Xiang, co-founder of SlowMist, revealed that MetaMask's Google account login feature could encrypt and backup mnemonic phrases to servers, posing risks if accounts are compromised. MetaMask security lead Taylor Monahan defended the architecture, stating it offers robust security and simplifies onboarding, though she acknowledged it may not suit advanced users.
Historically, similar programs by Arbitrum and Optimism have increased Total Value Locked (TVL) and network activity, with experts predicting a potential uptick in Ethereum layer-2 engagement and DeFi participation due to this initiative.
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