Mastercard has selected the Polygon network as the first blockchain to power its new system of verified, human-readable usernames for self-custody wallets, expanding the company’s “Crypto Credential” initiative. The collaboration is designed to make sending and receiving crypto as simple and intuitive as traditional payments, while drastically reducing the risk of errors tied to long, complex wallet addresses.
Under this new model, users will be able to replace alphanumeric strings with simple, verified aliases. These aliases function like digital usernames, enabling more seamless transfers and providing confidence that funds are being sent to the correct individual or business. Payment API provider Mercuryo will act as the initial issuer, conducting the verification process and assigning these aliases through standard KYC methods.
A key component of the system is trust. Mastercard’s credential framework allows users to request a soulbound token on the Polygon network, an on-chain signal confirming that a given wallet belongs to a verified user and is eligible for credential-based transaction processing. This brings a layer of identity assurance to blockchain activity without exposing unnecessary personal details.
Polygon was chosen as the launch network due to its high transaction speed, reliability, and architecture optimized for payment flows. These strengths make it well suited for an interoperable identity layer that must work quickly and consistently across multiple platforms.
The partnership reflects Mastercard’s ongoing push to unite traditional finance with decentralized ecosystems. By simplifying wallet interactions and standardizing verification, the company aims to accelerate mainstream adoption of self-custody while making Web3 transactions safer and more accessible for everyday users.
