Self-Sovereign

Definition ∞ Self-Sovereign describes a model where individuals possess complete control and ownership over their digital identity and personal data. This concept shifts data governance away from centralized entities towards the individual, granting them authority to manage and selectively share their credentials. It relies on cryptographic proofs and decentralized identifiers (DIDs) to establish verifiable and portable digital identities. This approach significantly alters traditional data privacy and access paradigms.
Context ∞ The concept of self-sovereign identity is a significant discussion point within the blockchain and Web3 movements, aiming to redefine digital ownership. Proponents contend it offers a robust solution to data breaches and privacy infringements prevalent in centralized systems. A key debate involves the technical complexities of implementation and achieving widespread adoption across diverse digital platforms. Future developments include the integration of self-sovereign identity solutions into various online services, enhancing user autonomy.