Connect a wallet and anchor a memory (beginner guide)

You can write memories with email only. This page is for the moment you decide to put a cryptographic proof on-chain. No prior crypto knowledge required.

Do I need to install MetaMask?

Not unless you want to anchor. Writing and saving drafts works like a normal website after you sign in with email. When you are ready to anchor, you need a wallet that can sign transactions on the network this app uses. MetaMask is a common choice (browser extension and mobile app), but it is not the only one. The app also supports WalletConnect, which lets many mobile wallets connect by scanning a QR code. If you already use another Ethereum-compatible wallet in your browser, it may appear as “injected” when you click connect.

What is a wallet, in everyday words?

Think of it as a keychain for your blockchain identity. It stores cryptographic keys, shows you transaction requests in plain language as best it can, and asks you to approve or reject. It does not replace your Missing You account: email login still controls your memories in the app. The wallet is mainly for signing the anchor transaction and paying network fees when you choose to anchor.

How to connect your wallet here

Open the site menu (top right), then choose “Connect wallet”. Pick MetaMask, WalletConnect, or another option your browser offers. Approve the connection in your wallet popup. If nothing happens, check that the extension is unlocked or try refreshing once. On mobile, WalletConnect is often the smoothest path.

Networks, fees, and test vs real money

Anchoring always targets one specific blockchain network that the app is configured for (for example Ethereum mainnet or a test network). Your wallet must be on that same network when you sign. Publishing a transaction costs a small network fee paid in the chain’s native coin (for example ETH on Ethereum), not paid to Missing You. On test networks, faucets give away free test coins so you can practice. On mainnet, you need real coins you bought or transferred yourself, and prices move with network traffic.

How to anchor a memory, step by step

1. Write or open a draft memory and make sure you are happy with the text. Anchoring is optional and happens only when you choose it.
2. Connect your wallet from the menu and switch to the network the app expects (your wallet will usually prompt you, or the app will ask you to switch).
3. Open the memory you want to anchor and find the “Anchor to blockchain” section.
4. Read the short explanation: only a memory key and content hash go on-chain, not your full journal text.
5. Click the anchor button and confirm the transaction in your wallet. Wait until the network confirms.
6. If the app shows a success state, your proof is stored. You can copy the transaction hash to view it on a public block explorer.

If something fails

Transactions can fail when the network is busy, the fee is too low, or you reject the request in the wallet. You can try again with a fresh fee suggestion. If the chain succeeded but the app looks stuck, some screens let you paste the confirmed transaction hash to sync state. When in doubt, check your wallet’s activity tab for the latest status.

Stay safe

Never share your wallet seed phrase or password with anyone, including support. Bookmark the real site URL. Missing You will never ask you to “invest” or send tokens to unlock anchoring. If a popup or site asks for your seed phrase, close it.