NFT-Based Authentication in Education: ERC-721 Token Use for Moodle LMS Security and Credentialing
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24191/jcrinn.v11i1.622Keywords:
blockchain, decentralized authentication, nft identity, e-learning, lms, moodleAbstract
The increasing adoption of blockchain technology in education has introduced alternative approaches to identity verification beyond centralized credential systems. This study proposes and implements a decentralized authentication mechanism for Moodle LMS using ERC-721 non-fungible tokens (NFTs) verified through MetaMask. Developed as a proof-of-concept following a design science methodology, the system links on-chain identity tokens to Moodle accounts without storing usernames or passwords. The architecture integrates Ethereum smart contracts, nonce-based digital signature verification, and Moodle’s Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) framework. Functional testing confirms that access is granted exclusively to users possessing valid ERC-721 tokens and verified wallet signatures. Replay attack simulations demonstrate effective resistance through nonce validation, while ensuring that no sensitive credential data is exposed during the authentication process, in contrast to default Moodle login mechanisms. Performance evaluation using Apache JMeter indicates stable operation under moderate loads. Although scalability and token management limitations remain, the results demonstrate the technical feasibility and enhanced security advantages of NFT-based authentication for learning management systems.Downloads
References
Baldi, M., Chiaraluce, F., Kodra, M., & Spalazzi, L. (2019). Security analysis of a blockchain-based protocol for the certification of academic credentials. arXiv preprint arXiv:1910.04622. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.1910.04622
Bashir, I. (2017). Mastering blockchain: Deeper insight into decentralization, cryptography, Bitcoin, and popular blockchain frameworks. Packt Publishing Limited.
Chukowry, V., Nanuck, G., & Sungkur, R. K. (2021). The future of continuous learning – Digital badge and microcredential system using blockchain. Global Transitions Proceedings, 2, 248–253. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gltp.2021.08.026
Hevner, A. R., March, S. T., Park, J., & Ram, S. (2004). Design science in information systems research. MIS Quarterly, 28(1), 75–105. https://doi.org/10.2307/25148625
Karataş, E. (2018). Developing Ethereum blockchain-based document verification smart contract for Moodle Learning Management System. Gazi University Journal of Science Part B: Art, Humanities, Design and Planning, 6(4), 399–406. https://doi.org/10.17671/GAZIBTD.452686
Leka, E., & Selimi, B. (2021). Development and evaluation of blockchain-based secure application for verification and validation of academic certificates. Advances in Emerging Technology and Innovation, 5(2), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.33166/AETIC.2021.02.003
Pal, N. (2020). The emergence of decentralized web in the education field: A case study on challenges of learning systems based on decentralized learning model [Master's thesis, Uppsala University].
Paul, P., Aithal, P. S., & Saavedra Marroquin, M. (2022). Blockchain in educational development: Potentialities and issues—Towards sophisticated digital education systems. International Journal of Applied Sciences and Engineering (IJASE), 11(2), 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4400249
Ramasamy, L. K., & Khan, F. (2024). Blockchain for global education (1st ed.). Springer Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-52123-2
Sporny, M., Longley, D., & Chadwick, D. (2025). Verifiable credentials data model v1.1: W3C Recommendation. World Wide Web Consortium. https://www.w3.org/TR/vc-data-model-1.1/
Thennakoon, N. S. (2024). Leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the security of educational credentials in e-learning systems. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology (IJISRT), 9(11), 707–712. https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/ijisrt24nov638
Wang, X., Chen, W., Qiu, H., Eldurssi, A., Xie, F., & Shen, J. (2020). A survey on the e-learning platforms used during COVID-19. In 2020 11th IEEE Annual Information Technology, Electronics and Mobile Communication Conference (IEMCON) (pp. 808–814). IEEE. https://doi.org/10.1109/IEMCON51383.2020.9284840
