The metaverse, an expansive virtual realm, intertwines seamlessly with blockchain technology and digital wallets, revolutionizing the landscape of digital interactions. This research navigates the convergence of these domains - metaverse, blockchain technology and digital wallets -, particularly emphasizing the imperative to fortify the interoperability and efficiency of payment systems within this evolving landscape. In this dynamic metaverse, users immerse themselves in virtual experiences, transcending the boundaries of the physical world. Simultaneously, blockchain technology stands out for its decentralized architecture and cryptographic foundations, offering a transformative influence across industries. Digital wallets, as crucial components in this paradigm, facilitate seamless transactions and asset management. This study aims to decipher the intricate relationship between the metaverse, blockchain, and digital wallets. By delving into existing literature, it identifies nuanced gaps and challenges in current payment systems within virtual realms. The research sets forth a novel blockchain-based approach to fortify the security of digital wallets within the metaverse. The emphasis lies in integrating decentralized technologies to instil trust, transparency, and efficiency in virtual transactions. A meticulously designed project execution plan charts the course for the research journey over four years. The plan encapsulates a comprehensive exploration, including literature reviews, prototype design and development, usability studies, security assessments, and regulatory analyses. This endeavour aspires to contribute not only to a nuanced comprehension of the metaverse but also to offer innovative solutions for interoperable digital transactions. By developing a tangible, secure digital wallet prototype, the research aims to influence and elevate the landscape of digital transactions within virtual environments. Our commitment is to bridge the theoretical realms of the metaverse, blockchain, and digital wallets with practical solutions. This research seeks to echo in the academic sphere and beyond, fostering a more secure, transparent, and efficient future for financial interactions within the metaverse.

Work supported by project InCITIES (GA 101071330 EU), the FCT within projectsUIDB/04466/2023 and UIDP/04466/2023, and also in part by the project Blockchain.PT – Agenda Decentralize Portugal with Blockchain, (Project No 51), WP 7: Interoperabilidade.

Digital Wallets,Metaverse,Blockchain,decentralized technologies,payment systems,digital transactions,virtual environments

• Ciências da Computação e da Informação - Ciências Naturais
• Engenharia Eletrotécnica, Eletrónica e Informática - Engenharia e Tecnologia