| Abstract [eng] |
The contemporary financial sector, particularly the cryptocurrency and Bitcoin ecosystem, is undergoing rapid transformation, driving and development of new technological solutions and financial innovations. As their adoption and value continue to grow, the need for secure and reliable storage methods has become increasingly critical. While many users still store cryptocurrencies online, there is a rising demand for solutions that offer enhanced security and greater user control. To address this need, the market has introduced various commercial hardware wallets capable of safeguarding users’ private keys by storing them offline, within the wallet, rather than on a network. However, many hardware wallets users encounter security vulnerabilities related to the collection and potential misuse of personal data, especially in the context of social engineering attacks. Supply chain attacks pose additional risks during production or logistics, as devices may be compromised with malicious software or hardware. Non-custodial wireless hardware Bitcoin wallets, operating without direct network connectivity, has emerged as an innovative and reliable solution that ensures greater security, anonymity and independence from third party control. The objective of this study was to develop a non-custodial wireless air gapped Bitcoin wallet constructed using standard, universal components that were not originally designed for the fintech or cryptocurrency markets. A prototype of the wallet was successfully developed, functioning offline and utilizing QR codes for transaction operations. The prototype, was assembled from universal and standard components and with Python base software, delivers all the basic Bitcoin wallet functionalities. Its modular architecture and use of standard components mitigate the risk with supply chain attacks, enhancing overall security. The developed wallet is non-custodial, operates offline, and effectively renders attacks such as social engineering or software-based exploits ineffective. |
