Changes to digital identity concepts and the implications for eResearch

Digital identity is gaining momentum across the planet with some estimates suggesting that 6.5 billion people worldwide will be using a digital identity by the end of 2026.  The rapid adoption of digital identity has had the flow on effect of both increased investment in, and increased regulation of, digital identity around the globe.  As a result of these trends digital identity concepts are changing to maximise trust and security whilst maintaining utility.  

These changes will impact researchers and eResearch infrastructure access sooner rather than later.  However, they also present many opportunities to more easily support collaborative projects, incorporate te ao Māori concepts of identity, make effective use of artificial intelligence or machine learning and protect intellectual property, whilst simultaneously reducing administrative overheads associated with managing access to data, infrastructure and services.

This presentation will cover emerging trends such as the decentralisation of identity, passwordless verification, machine identity, regulation in Aotearoa and what this could mean for researchers and eResearch infrastructure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Brownlie has been working in technology and telecommunications for over 30 years and has been with REANNZ since 2006 working in various technology based roles.  He is currently part of the REANNZ engagement team fulfilling the role of Senior Technical Advisor.  

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