Mastercard and Polygon Labs, with Mercuryo, are expanding the Crypto Credential program to introduce verified, human-readable usernames (verified aliases) to replace complex self-custody wallet addresses in crypto transfers.

Verified aliases can be linked to a self-custody wallet or issued as a soulbound token on Polygon to prove wallet ownership by a verified individual.

The initiative creates human-readable aliases through Mastercard’s infrastructure to simplify and secure wallet-to-wallet transfers.

While launch timelines haven’t been announced, the system is expected to roll out to users soon.

Industry context notes growing interest from traditional financial institutions in blockchain and crypto adoption.

The program aligns with regulatory goals, supporting global Travel Rule requirements to improve traceability of cross-border transfers.

Polygon’s network is chosen for high throughput and low fees to enable real-world payments at scale.

The concept is presented as a user-friendly alternative to name services like ENS and phone-number-based systems.

The report notes AI-assisted generation and situates the development among related username-based schemes and alternatives.

The goal is to reduce errors from copying long hexadecimal addresses and to make self-custody transfers function more like traditional payment rails.

Mercuryo is positioned as the issuer for the program, reflecting demand for secure, user-friendly crypto experiences.

A potential soulbound token on Polygon could certify verifiability of transactions, aiding interoperability and simplified experiences.