Title: Proposal for Decentralized Identity Verification Using zk-SNARKs Technology
Table of Contents:
- Abstract
- Motivation
- Definitions
- Specification
- Backward Compatibility
- Security Considerations
- Copyright
Abstract:
This proposal advocates for a protocol upgrade within the decentralized identity verification space, leveraging zk-SNARKs (Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge) technology. The proposed upgrade aims to enhance user privacy and security by integrating zk-SNARKs into the identity verification process, allowing individuals to prove the validity of their identity without revealing sensitive information.
Motivation:
Traditional identity verification processes often require individuals to disclose sensitive personal information, raising concerns about privacy and data security. By integrating zk-SNARKs, this proposal seeks to revolutionize identity verification, enabling users to prove the authenticity of their identity without exposing unnecessary details. This approach enhances user privacy and reduces the risk of identity theft or misuse of personal information.
Definitions:
- Decentralized Identity Verification: A process that allows individuals to prove their identity without relying on a central authority, enhancing privacy and reducing the need for unnecessary disclosure of personal information.
- zk-SNARKs Technology: Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge technology, enabling one party to prove possession of certain information without revealing the information itself.
- Identity Proof: Evidence provided by an individual to establish the authenticity of their identity, such as age or residency, without revealing specific details.
Specification:
- Integration with zk-SNARKs: Develop and integrate a module that utilizes zk-SNARKs technology for identity verification within decentralized applications and platforms.
- Identity Proof Smart Contracts: Establish standardized smart contracts for generating and verifying identity proofs using zk-SNARKs, ensuring compatibility and security across different applications.
- User-Controlled Data: Enable users to have greater control over their personal information by allowing them to choose which aspects of their identity to disclose during verification processes.
Backward Compatibility:
The integration with zk-SNARKs for identity verification will be designed as an additional feature within existing decentralized identity verification frameworks. This ensures backward compatibility with current identity verification processes and platforms.
Security Considerations:
To address potential security risks associated with the integration of zk-SNARKs in identity verification, the following measures will be implemented:
- Conduct thorough security audits of the zk-SNARKs identity verification module to identify and address any vulnerabilities.
- Implement a phased rollout, starting with a testnet deployment, to assess performance and security implications before a mainnet release.
Copyright:
This document is placed in the public domain under CC0 1.0 Universal.
By adopting this improvement proposal, decentralized identity verification processes will be significantly enhanced, providing users with a more secure and private means of proving their identity across various decentralized applications and platforms. The integration of zk-SNARKs technology in identity verification marks a crucial step towards a more privacy-centric and user-controlled digital identity landscape.