MasterCard, Polygon replace wallet addresses with username-based transfers

MasterCard makes another move deeper into the blockchain world, this time making online payments more familiar to day-to-day users.

On Tuesday, the firm revealed a strategic partnership with Polygon and digital payments provider Mercuryo to launch an innovative system that replaces the complex wallet addresses with verified usernames.

Notably, MasterCard Crypto Credential makes sending and receiving digital assets as simple as sending money using mobile applications.

Rather than copying or typing long wallet codes (where a minor mistake can lead to massive losses), users will leverage human-readable aliases linked to their verified identities.

Commenting on the new initiative, MasterCard’s Executive Vice President of Blockchain, Raj Dhamodharan, said:

Bringing Mercuryo and Polygon’s capabilities together with our infrastructure makes digital assets more accessible and reinforces MasterCard’s commitment to delivering secure, intuitive, and scalable blockchain experiences for consumers worldwide.

How does the Crypto Credential system work?

While the new initiative focuses on simplicity and user-friendliness, the behind-the-scenes flow remains somewhat elegant.

First and foremost, a user creates a distinct username, which passes through Mercuryo for identity verification.

The platform then links the username to their blockchain wallet after approval.

After that, users can request a soulbound token from the Polygon blockchain.

This coin serves as a digital badge confirming that a wallet is Crypto Credential-enabled.

It shows that the user accepts alias-based transfers.

Now, anyone sending assets to the addresses does not need the entire wallet digits.

They only type the username, and Crypto Credential routes the transaction to the verified address.

The shift, though subtle, solves one of the primary entry barriers in the blockchain world, one that has hindered adoption.

MasterCard removes entry barrier to crypto

One of the primary barriers to cryptocurrency isn’t only volatility or regulation, it’s user experience.

For years, individuals had to copy-paste long wallet addresses and double-check.

One simple missed character and money is lost forever, without customer support to reach out.

MasterCard trusts that solving this issue can help propel crypto mainstream usage.

Traditional payment applications like PayPal have thrived due to their simplicity.

You only need to search the recipient’s name and tap send.

MasterCard hopes to introduce this usability to digital assets.

POL price outlook

Polygon’s native token traded in the red as bearish sentiments gripped the broader marketplace.

It has lost close to 4% of its value in the past day to trade at $0.1457.

POL exhibits a downside trend in the near-term after a 20% decline the previous week.

Meanwhile, Polygon exhibits a lucrative future.

If Crypto Credential gains traction, the blockchain could pioneer username/aliases as the new standard for crypto apps, exchanges, and wallets.

That would mean more utility for POL, which is a key catalyst for long-term stability.

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