Definition ∞ Identity revocation is the process of invalidating or canceling a previously issued digital identity or credential, rendering it no longer valid for authentication or authorization. This action is necessary in cases of compromise, loss, or when an identity’s associated permissions are no longer applicable. Effective revocation mechanisms are crucial for maintaining security and trust within identity management systems. It ensures that outdated or compromised credentials cannot be misused.
Context ∞ In decentralized identity systems, particularly those built on blockchain, identity revocation presents unique challenges due to the immutable nature of ledger entries. Discussions often focus on designing efficient and transparent revocation methods that do not compromise user privacy or system decentralization. Future solutions aim to balance the need for control over identity status with the core principles of self-sovereignty, potentially involving verifiable credential status registries or selective disclosure protocols.