Got ID? New Projects Explore Blockchain Identity Systems

In the wake of the Cambridge Analytica private data scandal, people are becoming more aware of the value of data and how it shapes the world.

The use of blockchain in data has a simple objective: to place data back in the hands of those who create it.

"A blockchain ID system, conversely, adopts a user-centric approach, eliminating central points of failure by empowering individuals with self-sovereign possession over their own data. A blockchain ID system would not require government bodies to store or share personal information in order for individuals to access services."

With projects on at least three continents striving to secure citizen data through blockchain technology, what are the latest developments in identity systems?

"IdentiCAT intends to be the first digital identity in Europe, which will be driven by the public sphere and self-managed by citizens themselves with full legal guarantee and effectiveness to operate not only with public authorities, but also with private entities, thus fully ensuring compliance with personal data protection regulations."

The release went on, explaining that Catalonian citizens "May demonstrate any required feature of their identity keeping the rest of their data contained in their ID private."

"Self Sovereign Identity models are seen mostly as new means to satisfy the increased privacy demands, brought by constant data breaches and privacy legislation. Users want to control their data as they see how hackable state owned registries are. Governments want to build completely trustworthy technological environment which also allows user to decide whether to share their personal data with different service providers."

Sierra Leone will fully adopt blockchain IDsHaving already explored how blockchain can improve elections, along with the launch of a blockchain credit history platform in late August, Sierra Leone is among the most technologically proactive countries in Africa.

According to the three partners, inaccurate and incomplete data can worsen an already difficult situation for those attempting to enter the market, with data from the city government of Buenos Aires revealing that 16.2% of the city's inhabitants live below the poverty line.

Stumbling blocks: What stands in the wayAlthough it may seem at first glance that blockchain provides a simple solution to the problems that come with data and digital identity, the reality is that outside of cryptocurrencies and a few other notable exceptions, blockchain use remains limited.