Publication: Decentralized Identifier (DID)
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2023-07-06
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2023-07-06
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Abstract
An identification card that proves a person’s identity is essential in modern society. It allows individuals to access various online and in-person public services by verifying their identity. Through an identity (ID) card, government services such as civil complaints, taxation, health care, insurance, and pension can be smoothly provided. In some cases, the ID card may contain additional information, such as home address or eligibility for certain services, which can be used to verify your identity and eligibility for certain benefits. ID cards are crucial for accessing public - and private - services where the individuals need to verify the information. However, most IDs are issued and controlled by external authorities and information is shared and revoked upon the request. A decentralized identifier (DID) is a new type of globally unique persistent identifier that does not require centralized registration authorities. Repeatedly generated and registered cryptographically, DIDs enable a new model of decentralized digital identity, which is referred as self-sovereign identity or decentralized identity. This sometimes allows users to verify information rapidly without having to contact multiple issuing parties. This 4th issue in the Emerging Technology series briefly describes the DID and its potential for solving development challenges, alongside key highlights of Korea’s experience and lessons learned in regard to the exploration and adoption of emerging technologies.
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“World Bank. 2023. Decentralized Identifier (DID). Emerging Technologies Curation Series; No.4. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/39958 License: CC BY-NC 3.0 IGO.”
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