Social Impact of Blockchain-Based Digital Identity Systems

Abstract

The advent of blockchain technology has fundamentally changed digital identity management through secure and self-sovereign identity (SSI) systems. This paper aims to examine the social consequences of these identity systems, especially concerning the more marginalized groups such as those living as homeless or refugee populations. This works relies on literature review and personal experience gained through the VerifiD project at the UBC Blockathon for Social Good by analysing governance and implementation of systems, privacy, and regulatory issues. The paper also discusses North American cases to demonstrate the possibilities of using the system in practice and the attendant obstacles to its implementation and the ethical issues that arise.