Accenture has teamed up with Microsoft and Avanade to develop a digital-identity prototype based on blockchain and biometric technologies. This prototype aims to solve the problem faced by more than 1.1 billion people lacking official documented identities around the world.
The prototype is a type of database system that enables same data to be accessed by multiple parties without compromising on its security or integrity.
Its design is in alignment with the principles of Microsoft’s Decentralized Identity Foundation, and uses the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance’s private, or “permissioned,” blockchain protocol. It works interoperably with existing identity systems, allows users to enforce access-control over their personal information, always stores personally identifiable information “off chain” and taps into it when the individual user grants access. It runs on Microsoft Azure, the company’s cloud platform that offers global scale, flexibility and security.
It will make use of Accenture’s Unique Identity Service Platform to deploy a biometrics system that can manage fingerprints, iris and other data. This platform forms the core of the Biometric Identity Management System currently used by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The system is expected to support more than 7 million refugees from 75 countries by 2020.
The prototype project was led by the multi-disciplinary team at The Dock, Accenture’s new research and incubation hub in Ireland. Accenture and Microsoft have also formed the ID2020 consortium that unites technologists and experts from public and private sectors to implement technological innovations in ways that are scalable, secure and sustainable.
Accenture had in the past through Partnership for Refugees helped corporations better understand refugees’ needs and develop effective responses across areas like education, employment and enablement.
Interested in hearing leading global brands discuss subjects like this in person? Find out more at the Blockchain Expo World Series, Global, Europe and North America.
