Blockchain Identity Management

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The United Nations has determined that the right to identity begins at birth. However, there are currently over a billion people without any form of identification document . This is a challenge for us to understand how it will be possible to maintain physical records of identity in an increasingly digital world. Is it realistic to think that blockchain technology is the answer to this problem?



What is identity?
First of all, let's start by understanding what identity is. At a superficial level, a human being's identity corresponds to a set of data - first name, last name, date of birth, nationality, among others . This data is typically kuwait whatsapp number database on birth certificates, passports or national identity documents.

One of the major issues that arises from these types of records is how to physically maintain these data in an increasingly digital world. These records are managed by central authorities, which are responsible not only for issuing data, but also for validating it. However, according to the United Nations, there are currently more than a billion people who have no way of identifying themselves or proving their identity.

The lack of identity registration is a factor that excludes integration into society as we know it. Without valid and reliable proof of identity, it is not possible to vote, own movable/immovable property, seek government services, open bank accounts or have access to employment.

Existing solutions for verifying, storing, sharing and managing identity in the digital world are full of vulnerabilities. There are numerous reported cases that can even result in identity theft with very serious consequences for victims.

In order to solve this problem, there are several initiatives based on the use of blockchain technology .


Blockchain in Identity Management
In a minimalist way, we can describe the blockchain as a set (blocks) of immutable data , to which a timestamp is associated. This data is managed and stored by a cluster of computers that are not controlled by a single entity. Additionally, each of these blocks of data is linked sequentially, through the use of cryptographic algorithms.

In short, blockchain is characterized by decentralization . That is, data is replicated in its entirety by all nodes in the network. Once entered, this data can no longer be changed or removed. This happens due to cryptography, a practice that makes data immutable. In addition, the information entered into this set of blocks is characterized by transparency, being available for consultation and verification by everyone in the network.

Finally, we can also guarantee the privacy of this personal data through an identity management system, on the blockchain, which can take advantage of a verification/authentication method known as "Zero-Knowledge Proof” .

For example, imagine for a moment that someone wants to verify your age, but you don't want to reveal the day and month of your birthday. Through cryptography , an entity can verify the validity of certain information without revealing the evidence (the data) that supports that information. This phenomenon is also known as the "Yao's Millionaires' Problem” .


Digital Identity System
In this way, blockchain allows individuals or companies to maintain direct control over confidential information, making the processes of collecting, verifying and managing identities simpler and more efficient . However, it is not easy to make such a solution available to the masses, as there are numerous issues that require consensus.

Implementing isolated initiatives will not be enough to create a truly “self-regulating” digital identity system . Coordination and cooperation between organizations developing the various proofs of concept with this technology will be necessary, as is being done at the ID2020 forum .

Ultimately, countries, central authorities, public institutions and private organizations will have to work together to create standards for interoperability with existing systems , to reach a consensus on how to accept this data and identity validation methods.


Final considerations
These issues go beyond the identification and documentation of citizens, and are also applicable to the management of the identity of products/objects . This information faces the challenges already advocated by "Industry 4.0" , with regard to its origin, composition and traceability .

There are several initiatives with blockchain -based software , in different states of maturity, that aim to resolve these issues, pointing to potential application in other domains.

The success of these initiatives could dictate the viability of applying blockchain technology , not only in the management of identity in products, but also in the management of people's identities, contributing to a less centralized and more democratic digital identity system .