# Freeze Authority

### What is Freeze Authority in Memecoins?

When trading memecoins, it's essential to know about freeze authority. This can be a tricky concept, but here’s a simple breakdown:

**Definition:**

{% hint style="info" %}

* Freeze authority means the creator of a specific coin has the power to freeze any token at any time.
* This can make it look like the coin is still active because others are buying and selling, but you might be unable to do so.
  {% endhint %}

### How Does Freeze Authority Work?

Freeze authority allows the coin’s creator to restrict you from moving or selling the token. This can effectively steal your money and create a ‘honey pot’ where your funds are trapped.

**Example of Freeze Authority:**

* **Bad Actors:** Some developers might abuse this feature by freezing your token account. This means you can’t sell that specific token, even though you can still use other assets in your wallet.

### How to Prevent Getting Trapped by Frozen Tokens

To avoid getting caught in a freeze authority trap, follow these steps:

1. **Check for Freeze Authority:**
   * Before buying any coin, use a tool like [RugCheck](https://rugcheck.xyz/) to see if freeze authority is enabled.
   * If it is enabled, it means the creator can stop you from selling the coin, effectively stealing your money.
2. **Avoid Buying Coins with Freeze Authority:**
   * If you see that freeze authority is enabled, it’s a sign that you should NOT buy the coin.
   * The creator might use this feature to freeze your tokens and prevent you from selling them.

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/wD2Ry45GFryWBHbv5gl5/blobs/paBQTmdcCTQ0gNj3LWuj/photo_2024-05-20%2021.50.23.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Example of what you will see when searching a coin with Freeze Authority on Rugcheck!</p></figcaption></figure>