International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 11 | Nov 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
BLOCKCHAIN-INSPIRED CERTIFICATE AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM Sahana S Kalhol¹, Neha Basavanal², Triveni S Kalavvagol³, Prof. P.S. Puranik⁴ 1,2,3, Student , Department of Information Science and Engineering , Basaveshwar Engineering College,
Bagalkote, India 4Associate Professor, Department of Information Science and Engineering, Basaveshwar Engineering
College, Bagalkote, India. ------------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract-Blockchain-Inspired Certificate Authentication System provides a solution to the emerging issue of certificate forgery and in-efficient verification processes. Existing verification mechanisms for certificates are based on centralized powers, which are slow, error-prone, and open to manipulation. Although blockchain technology provides security through decentralization, it is expensive, cumbersome, and resource-intensive. This project presents a lightweight solution which inculcates the security aspects of blockchain along with real-world simplicity. Using SHA-256 hashing algorithms, every certificate produces a distinct digital fingerprint kept in a local JSON-based ledger. Integration with QR codes facilitates immediate verification without the need for internet access or centralized servers. The system offers tamper-evident authentication, offline support, and dramatically lower operational costs than full blockchain solutions. The solution is especially ideal for schools and universities, professional certifying organizations, and organizations needing secure, efficient, and scalable certificate verification.
Keywords-Blockchain, Certificate Authentication, SHA-256 Hashing, QR Code Verification, Digital Signature, Cryptographic Hash, JSON Ledger, Tamper-Proof System, Offline Verification, Cybersecurity, Document Authentication, Decentralized Verification, Certificate Fraud Prevention, Digital Credentials, Secure Authentication
1. Introduction Today's digital world has made the integrity and authenticity of certificates of prime importance to educational institutions, professional associations, and government agencies. The availability of forged certificates and counterfeit credentials poses serious threats to employers, educational institutions, and society as a whole. Conventional certificate verification processes depend heavily on manual intervention and centralized organizations, resulting in time lag, added costs, and susceptibility to manipulation or corruption. Blockchain technology has already proven to be a viable solution for secure document authentication due to its inherent nature of immutability, transparency, and decentralization. Full blockchain systems, though, require a great amount of computational power, storage, and technical skills, rendering it infeasible for the majority of organizations, particularly smaller institutions with constrained budgets. This project offers a blockchain - motivated certificate authentication system that enjoys the security advantages © 2025, IRJET
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Impact Factor value: 8.315
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Figure 1: Problems in Traditional verification systems of blockchain in a simple and cost-effective form. The use of SHA-256 cryptographic hashing in combination with QR code technology and a lean JSON-based ledger achieves strong authentication without the burden of a full-fledged blockchain setup. This makes it possible for institutions, certification agencies, and organizations to have secure, tamper-resistant certificate authentication both online and offline. ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal
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