Building a global digital identity infrastructure

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Abstract: This paper lays out the need for an electronic identity infrastructure. After describing the landscape, current alternatives and hurdles to overcome, it proposes a way forward, based on the recently launched Global Assured Identity Network, which leverages existing identity and authentication mechanisms. This network uses an architecture that keeps the customer in full control of their personal data, and is based on OpenID Connect and Financial Grade API. The proposed solution is described in detail, including the way to adoption and the trade-offs and considerations that underpin it.

Keywords: GAIN; digital identity; digital infrastructure; industry initiative; open standards; OpenID; FAPI

Gottfried Leibbrandt is a former CEO of Swift, the cross-border payments network. He is currently on the board of CLS, as well as the advisory board of yes.com. He is the co-author of the book ‘The Payoff: How Changing the Way We Pay Changes Everything’. He also serves as senior adviser to McKinsey & Co, where he was a partner before joining Swift.

Daniel Goldscheider is the Co-founder and CEO of yes.com, a leading application programming interface ecosystem. He has previously co-founded Mediaguide with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers and Aureus Private Equity in Switzerland. Daniel is currently on the board of directors of Valamar Riviera d.d., the largest hospitality company in Croatia, and the Global Footprint Network. He is a consultant and investor in numerous startups.