Introduction
Many crypto users believe that disconnecting their wallet from a website fully removes access. Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Even after disconnecting, wallet approvals can remain active, allowing smart contracts to interact with your tokens later.
This is one of the most common reasons users lose funds without realizing what went wrong. The good news is that approvals can be checked and revoked safely. This guide explains how approvals work, why they stay active, and exactly how to remove them step by step.
Quick Answer
If you disconnected your wallet but approvals are still active:
- Disconnecting only removes the connection
- Token approvals remain unless manually revoked
- Active approvals can allow token transfers later
Checking and revoking approvals is the safest solution.
What Are Wallet Approvals?
Wallet approvals allow a smart contract to:
- Spend specific tokens
- Up to a certain limit (or unlimited)
- Without asking you again each time
They are commonly used by:
- DEXs
- NFT marketplaces
- DeFi platforms
Approvals are not removed automatically when you disconnect a site.
Why Approvals Stay Active After Disconnecting
Disconnecting Is Not Revoking
Disconnecting a site only stops the website from requesting new actions. It does not cancel permissions already granted on-chain.
Unlimited Approvals
Some platforms request unlimited approvals for convenience, which increases long-term risk.
Forgotten Connections
Users often forget old dApps they interacted with months ago, leaving approvals active.
How to Check Active Wallet Approvals
Step 1: Use a Trusted Approval Checker
Use a reputable approval checker compatible with your network.
Examples include:
- Etherscan Token Approvals
- Network explorers’ approval tools
Always double-check the website URL.
Step 2: Review Approved Contracts
Look for:
- Unknown contracts
- Old platforms you no longer use
- Unlimited spending permissions
If something looks unfamiliar, treat it as a risk.
How to Revoke Wallet Approvals Safely
Step 1: Revoke Unused Permissions
- Revoke approvals you no longer need
- Prioritize unknown or inactive contracts
This usually requires a small gas fee.
Step 2: Confirm the Transaction
- Approve the revocation in your wallet
- Wait for confirmation on the blockchain
Once confirmed, the contract can no longer access your tokens.
What NOT to Do
- Do not approve random “security tools”
- Do not sign messages claiming to “fix approvals”
- Do not ignore old approvals indefinitely
- Do not share your seed phrase
FAQ
Is revoking approvals mandatory?
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended for security.
Can approvals drain my wallet automatically?
Only if a malicious or compromised contract uses the permission.
How often should I check approvals?
Every few weeks, or after interacting with new dApps.
Final Thoughts
Disconnecting a wallet is not the same as revoking permissions. Active approvals are silent risks that many users overlook. Regularly reviewing and revoking unused approvals is one of the simplest ways to protect your funds.
🔒 Security Note
This content is for educational purposes only. We never ask for private keys, recovery phrases, or verification codes.