Definition ∞ Long-term identity is a persistent, verifiable digital representation of an individual or entity that endures across various platforms and interactions over an extended period. In decentralized systems, this often refers to self-sovereign identity solutions where users control their personal data and cryptographic identifiers. It contrasts with ephemeral or platform-specific identities, aiming to provide a consistent and reusable digital presence. This identity is not tied to a single centralized authority.
Context ∞ Long-term identity is a growing area of focus in crypto news, particularly with the rise of Web3 applications and the push for user data ownership. Discussions frequently center on decentralized identity (DID) standards and their potential to revolutionize online privacy and authentication, moving away from reliance on large tech companies. The challenges involve achieving widespread adoption, interoperability across different protocols, and balancing user control with necessary regulatory compliance for anti-money laundering purposes.