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Backchannel: A relationship-based digital identity system

inkandswitch.com · 8,777 words · saved by 1 readers

In this article, we propose an alternative approach to digital identity that replaces user profiles with trusted digital relationships.

The problem: “I authenticate, therefore I am” User profiles (like your Google or Facebook accounts) are broadly used in online systems. But when applied to communication and collaboration tools, user profiles have three important shortcomings. First, user profile systems create an attack surface for impersonation because anyone can present an identity – their own or otherwise – making it possible to fake a user profile and impersonate someone else. For example, it’s easy to change a single character of an email address (e.g., charlie@compàny.com), and copy the name and photo. In these social e

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