• Mastercard Crypto Credential enables username-style aliases for crypto transfers to self-custody wallets

• Polygon provides onchain infrastructure as the first blockchain for this feature, ensuring scalability and security

• According to Mastercard’s press release, the initiative includes soulbound tokens on Polygon to verify wallet ownership, with Mercuryo handling KYC processes

Discover how Mastercard Crypto Credential revolutionizes self-custody wallets with verified aliases on Polygon. Learn about safer crypto transfers and blockchain integration today.

What is Mastercard Crypto Credential for Self-Custody Wallets?

Mastercard Crypto Credential is an innovative program that introduces verified, human-readable aliases for self-custody wallets, allowing users to send and receive cryptocurrencies using simple usernames instead of lengthy hexadecimal addresses. Launched as part of Mastercard’s expanding blockchain strategy, it leverages Polygon for onchain support and Mercuryo for robust identity verification. This approach not only streamlines transactions but also builds greater trust in peer-to-peer digital asset transfers by minimizing errors and ensuring compliance with security standards.

How Does Polygon Integrate with Mastercard’s Crypto Aliases?

Polygon serves as the foundational blockchain for Mastercard’s Crypto Credential rollout, enabling the issuance of soulbound tokens that link verified identities to self-custody wallets. These non-transferable tokens prove ownership and authenticity without compromising user control. According to industry reports, Polygon’s scalable layer-2 solution processes transactions efficiently, reducing costs and latency compared to mainnet Ethereum. Marc Boiron, CEO of Polygon Labs, emphasized that this partnership simplifies self-custody, stating, “This marks the moment when self-custody becomes simple.” Supporting data from blockchain analytics shows Polygon’s network handling over 1 billion transactions annually, making it ideal for mainstream adoption. Mercuryo’s verification process ensures only authenticated users receive aliases, preventing fraud while maintaining privacy through zero-knowledge proofs where applicable. This integration aligns with broader trends in Web3, where interoperability between traditional finance and decentralized systems is key to user-friendly experiences.

Mastercard chooses Polygon to launch username-based crypto transfers. Source: Polygon

Raj Dhamodharan, executive vice president of blockchain and digital assets at Mastercard, highlighted the program’s impact: “By streamlining wallet addresses and adding meaningful verification, Mastercard Crypto Credential is building trust in digital token transfers.” This initiative addresses common pain points in crypto usage, such as address typos leading to lost funds, which have resulted in billions in errors industry-wide, per Chainalysis reports. Mastercard’s focus on self-custody preserves user sovereignty, differentiating it from custodial services that hold private keys.

The program’s design mimics traditional payment systems, where recipients use familiar identifiers like email addresses. Once users complete Mercuryo’s identity verification, they can generate an alias or opt for a Polygon-based soulbound token. This token acts as a digital passport, confirming the wallet’s legitimacy without revealing sensitive details. Early adopters, including developers and financial institutions, have praised the system’s ease of integration, with pilot tests showing a 90% reduction in transfer errors during simulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Verified Crypto Aliases in Mastercard’s Program?

Verified crypto aliases are human-readable usernames tied to self-custody wallets through Mastercard Crypto Credential. Users undergo identity checks via Mercuryo to receive these aliases, which replace complex addresses for sending and receiving crypto. This feature, supported on Polygon, enhances security and usability while keeping funds under user control, as outlined in Mastercard’s recent announcements.

How Can I Use Mastercard Crypto Credential with My Self-Custody Wallet?

To use Mastercard Crypto Credential, first verify your identity with Mercuryo, then link an alias or soulbound token to your wallet on Polygon. This allows seamless crypto transfers using simple usernames, much like sending money via a phone number in mobile banking. It’s designed for everyday users, ensuring quick setup and compatibility with popular wallets without needing technical expertise.

Key Takeaways

• Simplified Transfers: Mastercard Crypto Credential uses aliases to eliminate errors from long wallet addresses, making crypto as easy as traditional payments.
• Blockchain Backbone: Polygon’s onchain support enables soulbound tokens for verified ownership, boosting security with scalable technology.
• User Empowerment: Maintain full control of your self-custody wallet while benefiting from KYC-backed trust, ideal for broader crypto adoption.

Conclusion

Mastercard’s Crypto Credential for self-custody wallets represents a pivotal step in bridging traditional finance and blockchain innovation, with Polygon integration enhancing verified crypto aliases and Mercuryo ensuring reliable identity verification. As the program expands, it promises safer, more accessible digital asset transfers for users worldwide. Stay informed on these developments to leverage the next wave of crypto usability and security advancements.

Building on this momentum, Mastercard has deepened its Web3 involvement through additional partnerships. In June 2025, the company collaborated with Chainlink to facilitate onchain crypto purchases for its three billion cardholders. This initiative allows direct fiat-to-crypto conversions using familiar card interfaces, powered by partners like Shift4 Payments, Swapper Finance, XSwap, and ZeroHash. ZeroHash provides liquidity for seamless transactions, while Chainlink’s infrastructure ensures reliable oracle data for accurate pricing.

The Chainlink partnership emphasizes non-custodial options, where users retain control via account abstraction on platforms like Swapper Finance. This makes buying crypto feel intuitive, akin to online shopping, without intermediaries holding funds. Industry experts note this as a game-changer for mass adoption, with Chainlink’s network securing over $10 trillion in value transferred annually. Mastercard’s strategy aligns with regulatory compliance, incorporating MiCA standards in Europe through entities like Zerohash.

Throughout 2024 and 2025, Mastercard has accelerated its crypto efforts, including Kraken debit cards in Europe and a MetaMask self-custody payments card. These moves underscore a commitment to user-centric innovation. As per financial analyses, such integrations could transform banking by embedding crypto into daily payments, potentially disrupting legacy systems.

The Crypto Credential program’s focus on self-custody addresses rising demand for sovereign control amid growing institutional interest. Mercuryo, as the inaugural issuer, reports surging inquiries from fintechs seeking similar verification tools. Polygon’s role extends beyond aliases, supporting broader interoperability that could standardize wallet interactions across chains.

Looking ahead, Mastercard’s ecosystem aims to reduce barriers for newcomers while reassuring seasoned users. With error reduction and trust-building at its core, this evolution positions crypto transfers as a viable alternative to fiat rails, fostering a more inclusive digital economy.