Identity Verification and Related Platforms

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments described herein include generating a Web3 identity using a user's root legal identity, and related digital residency platform and verification systems and methods include a blockchain-native digital residency platform that combines the privacy and security of a Web3 identity with global sovereign power and validity.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Priority

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 267,993, filed February 14, 2022, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] As global connectivity brings people into the multiverse, artificial borders created by legal institutions limit innovation and business activity. For example, remittances from one country to another may be restricted. The right to do business in one country does not automatically transfer the right to do business in another. Similarly, separate intellectual property rights and other restricted rights that are geographically dependent impede innovation, commercialization, and the expansion of global knowledge. Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] The ability to cross borders is hindered by the controls of each jurisdiction. Blockchain and open ledger technologies have the potential to overcome these boundaries by limiting the control that jurisdictions and legal entities can exercise. However, traditional blockchain solutions are entirely limited to the virtual world and do not provide solutions in the physical world for realizing physical transactions and benefits. Without the legitimacy of sovereign and legal entities behind the blockchain, there is a limit to the use of blockchain technology to create solutions such as those described herein. Thus, exemplary embodiments relate to a digital residency and global citizenship platform that can use blockchain technology for privacy and security while preserving the physical legitimacy of sovereign and legal entities. Thus, exemplary embodiments may include a blockchain-native digital residency platform that combines the privacy and security of Web3 identities with the power and effectiveness of global sovereigns.

[0004]

[0004] An exemplary embodiment of this first Web3 identity platform is generated using end-to-end encryption, allowing users to control the disclosure of their own data and identity. An exemplary embodiment may leverage non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as decentralized identifier (dID) documents and zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs).

[0005]

[0005] Exemplary embodiments described herein can provide claims associated with an identification that allow a system to verify a credential without providing personally identifiable information. For example, an identity stored as an NFT can include personal characteristics such as age range, age group, eye color, height, weight, gender, organizational affiliation, political affiliation, etc. that can be verified, such as an ID credential that does not require revealing personal information.

[0006]

[0006] Exemplary embodiments described herein provide a digital verification system. The exemplary embodiments enable cross-border functionality to support a global infrastructure. The exemplary embodiments can be used to provide verification for residency, banking, brokerage, incorporation, business formation, etc. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary ID provided by the embodiments described herein. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a technical overview of the new ID platform according to embodiments described herein. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates an example block diagram of a technical overview of the new ID platform according to embodiments described herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for a new ID workflow according to embodiments described herein. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for a new ID workflow according to embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008]

[0012] The following detailed description illustrates the principles of the invention by way of example and not by way of limitation. The description is intended to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and applications of the invention, including the best mode currently contemplated. It should be understood that the drawings are illustrative and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention, are not limiting of the invention, and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0009]

[0013] Exemplary embodiments described herein provide a digital residency platform and verification system and method. The system may include a blockchain-native digital residency platform that combines privacy and security for residency verification with global sovereign capability and validity. Exemplary embodiments may be used for a global and borderless infrastructure to support new digital experiences around the world. Exemplary applications of the digital residency platform may be used to support and / or allow digital residency verification, digitally signed documents, electronic banking and / or electronic brokerage services, remote incorporation of business entities, verification of personal characteristics, and the like. Exemplary embodiments of the digital residency platform and verification system and method described herein may support multiple residencies for multiple users thereof, provide a consistent user experience globally and across jurisdictions, and / or provide sovereign legal support.

[0010]

[0014] Exemplary embodiments of the digital residency platform and verification systems and methods described herein provide a tethered legal physical address that is backed and officially recognized by a partner sovereign nation. Exemplary embodiments can use physical verification through a sovereign nation to allow a residence to have a legally recognized digital residency. Based on the recognized digital residency, a resident can access services offered by legal entities related to the residence sovereign or its affiliates and partners. Services offered by partner nations can include, for example, financial services such as banking, brokerage, etc. A range of digital services can also be offered such as business formation and operation. Exemplary embodiments can also enable global registration such as for intellectual property filings, marketplaces, etc. The platform and associated methods can also provide dual or multiple residency capabilities. The platform and associated methods also provide the option to verify information about an individual or legal entity while keeping certain information (such as personally identifiable information) private.

[0011]

[0015] Exemplary embodiments of the digital residency platform and verification systems and methods described herein provide a real legal identification (ID) system for global citizens backed by sovereign law and implemented through non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Exemplary embodiments may allow legal ID verification using an open ledger system, i.e., blockchain. Exemplary embodiments may allow root identity supporting public chains. Exemplary embodiments may provide digital IDs backed by NFTs. Exemplary embodiments may allow legal recognition with sovereign issued real IDs. Exemplary embodiments may use zero-knowledge proofs supported to protect privacy. Exemplary embodiments may allow services to be offered at the item level from jurisdictional marketplaces. Exemplary embodiments may use digital IDs that are only disclosed using Know Your Customer (KYC) if approved by the holder.

[0012]

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary ID provided by embodiments described herein. As illustrated, a photo ID 100 includes an issuing authority 102, an image of a user 104, and information about the user and / or the ID 106. For example, the information about the user may include name, date of birth, address, gender, eye color, hair color, weight, height, etc., or any combination of such information. The information about the ID may include, for example, an ID number, issue date, expiration date, etc., or any combination of such information. The ID card may include one or more digital markers 108 that allow the ID card to be recognized by a scanner or other computer input. For example, the digital markers 108 of the ID card 100 may include a magnetic strip, a barcode, a QR code, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, or any combination thereof.

[0013]

[0017] The IDs provided herein may be, for example, physical ID cards such as passports, school identification cards, driver's licenses, government issued identification cards, employee identification cards, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the IDs may be digital IDs that contain the same information and are used as images on electronic devices to identify individuals and / or users.

[0014]

[0018] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary block diagram of a technical overview of the new ID verification system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015]

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the identity verification system may include an application 202 that may interface with other programs and systems using an application program interface (API) 204 .

[0016]

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, application 202 can interface with an open ledger system 216 and one or more user wallets 212, either directly or via API 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the user wallet may be integrated with or part of application 202 and / or a verification system described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, application 202 can be configured to communicate or interface with the user wallet, such that the user wallet is external to application 202. Similarly, an identity verification system can be configured to include an open ledger or to interface and / or communicate with the open ledger, such as via application 202 and / or API 204.

[0017]

[0021] As indicated by the dashed lines, the verification system 200 may include different components. For example, the verification system 200 may include an application 202 and / or an API 204. The verification system 200 may be configured to communicate with external systems, such as an open ledger, a user wallet, and an identity verification system 210. The verification system 200 may also include an identity verification system 210 that may be integrated with the application 202 or separate and communicate with the application 202 but remain within the communication / control of the verification system. Additionally or alternatively, the verification system 200 may include a user wallet that may interface with an open ledger that may be outside of the verification system, and the open ledger may be internal and / or external to the verification system. Thus, an exemplary embodiment of the verification system includes an application with or without an API for communicating and interfacing with other systems, including the verification system, the open ledger, the user wallet, and combinations thereof. An exemplary embodiment of the verification system includes an application and an identity verification system with or without an API, and the application and / or API may be configured to communicate with the open ledger and / or the user wallet. Exemplary embodiments of a verification system include an application with or without an API, and a user wallet configured to communicate with an open ledger, where the application and / or API are configured to communicate with an identity system. Exemplary embodiments of a verification system include an application with or without an API, and a user wallet in communication with an open ledger, where the application and / or API are configured to communicate with an identity verification system. Exemplary embodiments of a verification system include an application with or without an API, a user wallet configured to communicate with an external open ledger, and an ID verification system in communication with the application.An exemplary embodiment of validation includes an application with or without an API, a user wallet in communication with the open ledger, and an identity validation system in communication with the application.

[0018]

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the application 202 may include non-transitory program instructions stored on one or more memory devices that are executed by one or more processors to perform the functions described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, a user may access the application through a web interface. For example, a user may use a user electronic device, such as a mobile phone, computer, laptop, etc., to access a browser and communicate with the application over a network, such as the Internet. In an exemplary embodiment, a user may access the application through a user device. The application may be stored on a user device, such as a mobile phone, computer, laptop, tablet, etc., and the user executes the application to perform the functions described herein. The application may communicate with a portion of the application or a remote application stored on a remote computing device, such as a server, such that the application exists across a server and a user device.

[0019]

[0023] As shown, the application 202 may include a user interface configured to allow a user 206 to communicate with the application 202. The user interface may be displayed on an electronic device to provide information to the user and may also include inputs for receiving information from the user through gestures, a mouse, a keyboard, etc.

[0020]

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary verification system 200 includes an application 202. The application 202 is configured to allow a user to access the system, such as through an application stored on the user's device and / or through a website. The application 202 is configured to create a user ID. The system can be configured to receive information from the user and input it into a database. The user information can be used to input the information into the database regarding the user ID. For example, the user ID can include a user's image, name, date of birth, address, email address, phone number, country of residence, citizenship, country of registration, and the like, or a combination thereof. The application can also be configured to allow a user to create a username and password or other login credential combination (e.g., including biometrics) to allow the user to access the application.

[0021]

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include or communicate with a blockchain 216, such as, for example, Ethereum, BSC, etc. A blockchain is a digital, distributed, decentralized public ledger that exists across a network.

[0022]

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the system can include or communicate with a digital wallet 212. A wallet is a digital interface that allows a user to store, exchange / transact, or view information about a user's account (e.g., monitor and exchange cryptocurrencies owned by a user) as it relates to entries in a blockchain ledger. The wallet 212 can be configured to hold one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) 214 in accordance with embodiments described herein.

[0023]

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the system can include or communicate with an ID verification system 210. The ID verification system can be configured to receive an ID document. The ID document can be, for example, an ID of FIG. 1 issued by a recognized sovereign jurisdiction 208. The ID document can be, for example, a driver's license, a state or country issued ID, a passport, etc. The ID verification system 210 can be configured to receive an ID document, for example, by receiving a digital image, such as from a photograph, or by obtaining a digital scan or image of the document. The ID verification system 210 can allow a user to manipulate a stored data file containing an image of the ID document and upload the stored data file to the ID verification system 210. The system can allow a user to take a picture of the ID document using a camera or other image capture device, generate a data file containing the image of the ID document, and send it to the system components described herein. The system can also allow a user to provide other information about the ID document, such as an identification number, date of birth, issue date, expiration date, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the system can use image processing to recognize an image of an ID document from a data file and obtain required information from the document, such as the user's legal name, date of birth, jurisdiction of issue, issue date, expiration date, etc.

[0024]

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the ID verification system 210 is configured to verify the ID document. The document may be verified in one or more ways. For example, a user may set up an appointment with a verifier requiring the user to be present with another person so that the verifier can verify the ID document and the user's identity. The user may be required to appear in front of a camera and present the ID document, allowing the person to compare an image of the ID document with an image of the user on a video and an uploaded image of the ID document received through the ID system. The document may be verified through the use of artificial intelligence methods using facial recognition, object recognition, and analysis to ensure that a fake image is not provided on behalf of the user. For example, the system may detect the natural movements of the user as the user takes a video of their face and document, allowing the ID verification system to verify and compare the image of the user with the image of the ID document. The system may also be configured to receive additional information about the user by comparing publicly available information to verify the ID document and / or the user. For example, social media information may be used for additional image recognition and / or training for individual users. Additionally or alternatively, social media may provide location information to verify the user's location as they verify their identity. Exemplary embodiments of the ID system may include optical character recognition to extract document details to input information about the ID document into the system. Exemplary embodiments may use other techniques or combinations of techniques to digitally and / or manually verify users and / or ID documents. Additionally, document verification may be outsourced to additional ID verification technology providers.

[0025]

[0029] In an optional part of the verification system, the system may be configured to communicate with a jurisdiction system 208. The application may be configured to send a copy of the digital ID to the jurisdiction system for archival, storage, or other record keeping. In an exemplary embodiment, the application may create and encrypt a digital ID and send or otherwise communicate to a sovereign jurisdiction system. In an exemplary embodiment, the digital ID may be an image of an ID document. An exemplary embodiment of a digital ID may be used by a jurisdiction to create or support a digital ID and / or verification system. An encrypted file of the original ID document may be stored in cold storage, such as by writing the encrypted contents to a USB drive and then removing the USB drive from the system.

[0026]

[0030] Once the verification is complete, the ID verification system can communicate with the application to receive a copy of the digital ID. In an exemplary embodiment, the application can include a portion of the ID verification system, which allows the application to receive an image of the ID. The application can then communicate the necessary information to the ID verification system to verify or validate the user and / or the ID. In this case, the ID verification can use the digital ID directly.

[0027]

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the identity verification system can create a non-fungible token (NFT) for verification, such as through an application. The token can be configured to be associated with a sovereign jurisdiction and a user-generated identity. The token can be configured to include basic information about the verified identity / identity, which can include, for example, a document ID number, a jurisdiction, a verification URL, and one or more claims. An exemplary embodiment of the NFT allows for one or more claims to be stored in the NFT as metadata. The one or more claims in the NFT can be, for example, age range, 18+, 21+, gender identity, sex at birth, height, date of birth, etc. The claims can be age-related claims, such as 18+, 21+, etc., a sex at birth claim, and a hashed claim that matches the claim when the name is hashed, etc. An exemplary claim can be extended to all biographical data the platform knows about the person, such as residency status, among many other information. The hashed claim verifies that when a third party retrieves the information through the platform verification system, the information is correct and matches the hash stored in the identity token. Thus, the exemplary embodiments may be used to verify or confirm information about an identity without revealing other information about the user. The exemplary embodiments may be used, for example, to provide Boolean confirmation, where there are conditions regarding a person, such as being over a certain age, being at least a certain height, being a certain sex at birth, etc.

[0028]

[0032] In the embodiments described herein, an exemplary embodiment of an identity non-fungible token (NFT) is used to represent a user's identity, which can be verified, matched to a person, and placed in the user's wallet.

[0029]

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the verification system described herein may include one or more NFTs associated with one or more users. An individual identity NFT of one or more NFTs may be tied to a particular individual user of one or more users of the system through the systems and methods described herein. The NFT is then non-transferable, thereby ensuring that the same NFT remains tied to the same user, and the user's identity verification stays with the NFT and the user, allowing for continued verification of identity (or claims) through the NFT. Thus, the exemplary embodiment prevents the transfer of an NFT from one user wallet or user to another user wallet or user. Additionally, the exemplary embodiment of the NFT is configured to be non-fungible such that it cannot be duplicated or divided. Thus, an NFT, once minted, is unique and remains with the same user used to create the NFT.

[0030]

[0034] Of particular note, the NFT may include one or more claims associated with the NFT. In an exemplary embodiment, the NFT may include metadata including claims related to identity. In an exemplary embodiment, the claims may include non-personally identifiable claims. In an exemplary embodiment, the claims may be Boolean claims. For example, the one or more claims may be true or false statements about a particular characteristic, such as an age range, whether or not the user is over 18 years old, whether or not the user is over 21 years old, whether or not the user is over 56 inches tall, whether or not the user is female, whether or not the user is male, etc. Thus, the exemplary embodiment provides access to one or more claims to verify that a user meets a particular claim without providing any personally identifiable information. This may be used, for example, to provide access to a location by simply verifying the user's age based on the claims, such as allowing people over 21 to enter a bar, but not allowing people under 21 to enter.

[0031]

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment of the system described herein, a user may control the visibility of one or more of the claims, and thus may select which claims are accessible through the system or by a particular vendor or third party.

[0032]

[0036] Exemplary embodiments of the systems described herein include NFTs that are tamper-proof, such that once verified, the NFTs can be used to continually verify users and / or claims associated with the users without worrying that the tokens have been tampered with.

[0033]

[0037] In an optional exemplary embodiment, the ID verification system 200 can be configured to generate a new ID document for the jurisdiction, such as via the application 202. The new ID document may include personal information, such as a photo, name, address, citizenship, date of birth, etc., similar to IDs issued by other jurisdictions. The new ID document need not include all or any personal information. The new ID document may be provided or shipped to an address provided by the user or other known location where the user will pick up the document. The verification system can create the new ID document by communicating the necessary information to issue the new ID document to a third party, such as the jurisdiction system 208. Additionally or alternatively, the system can create / print the new ID document directly for the user.

[0034]

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the ID verification system is configured to erase or not retain copies or memories of the ID document originally provided to verify the user's identity. Thus, the ID verification system provides an additional layer of security since personal information associated with the new ID document is not retained and therefore cannot be accessed for theft or disclosure.

[0035]

[0039] An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency platform and verification system includes a user interface module, an application program interface, an identity verification module, and modules for wallet generation and communication with the blockchain open ledger. Each module may include one or more processors in communication with memory, which may be local, remote, and / or distributed, configured to perform the functions described herein.

[0036]

[0040] An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency platform and verification system includes a user interface module. In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface module may be part of the application 202. The user interface may be generated through a downloadable application on the electronic device and / or a browser or other electronic interface that communicates with a remote server and displays information on the electronic device. Functions of the user interface include, for example, providing a user interface that allows a user to create an identity in accordance with embodiments described herein. The user interface module may provide a user interface for providing user information such as, for example, any combination of name, address, residency, citizenship, desired jurisdiction, username, email, phone number, password, credentials, biometrics, etc.

[0037]

[0041] An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency platform and verification system includes an application program interface (API) 204 for communicating between the application 202 and other parts of the system, such as the digital wallet 212 and / or the blockchain 216, the jurisdiction system 208, and / or the identity verification system 210. The API is configured to send and receive information based on the interfaces of one or more different systems.

[0038]

[0042] An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency platform and verification system includes an identity verification module 210. The identity verification module functions to receive the encrypted identity document from the app 202, such as via the API 204, and to verify the original identity document. As such, the identity verification module can communicate an indication of approval or disapproval back to the system before the system generates or creates an NFT 214 or a new identity document according to embodiments described herein.

[0039]

[0043] An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency platform and validation system includes a wallet generation and blockchain open ledger communication module, the functionality of which is to generate digital wallets 212 and communicate with the blockchain 216 to read, write, or perform functions described herein to transfer, hold, or validate relationships between the wallets 212 and NFTs 214 or other tokens described herein.

[0040]

[0044] Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a technical overview of a new ID system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. While the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 is directed to a technical overview of the creation of a new ID, Figure 3 illustrates a similar workflow for a know your client (KYC) system.

[0041]

[0045] In this case, the system 300 does not include cold storage where information is sent to the jurisdiction system 308. Instead, the system can encrypt the ID document and send it to the jurisdiction system. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the system can include an ID system 318. The ID system 318 can be a system that generates new ID documents as described with respect to FIG. 2 that are provided to customers and stored on the blockchain. In an exemplary embodiment, the ID system 318 can generate new ID documents using the source document(s) and a photo of the user after the user is verified by the ID verification system 310 through the user document. The new ID document is issued and sent to an object store, file system, or queue for the jurisdiction that has granted the residency platform the authority to create new ID documents for that jurisdiction. The jurisdiction can keep the source information or move it to another system. After the source information is moved to the jurisdiction system, it can then be deleted from the system entirely.

[0042]

[0046] The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 may have features similar to those of FIG. 2 and may include, for example, an application 302 that allows a user 306 to create a new identity in the ID and verification system described herein, ultimately generating an NFT 314 that is stored in an open ledger 316 and accessed by the user through the user's digital wallet 312 to verify various attributes of the user through an ID verification system 310.

[0043]

[0047] FIG. 4 shows an overview example block diagram of a new ID method 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044]

[0048] Initially (step 402), a user enters the digital residency platform and verification system and creates an identity. The user may access the system through an application or website interface. The user may create an identity by inputting information into the system, such as providing a user image and inputting name, date of birth, address, country of residence, citizenship, desired country of registration, height, weight, eye color, hair color, or any combination of information into the system. The user may also create or provide a username, email, and / or password or other combination of credentials (e.g., biometrics) to enter the system.

[0045]

[0049] Upon creating the ID, the system creates a digital wallet for the user. The digital wallet communicates with a blockchain network, such as Ethereum, BSC, others, or a combination thereof. A blockchain is a digital, decentralized, and decentralized public ledger that exists across a network. A wallet is a digital interface that allows a user to store, exchange / transact, or have visibility into information about a user's account (e.g., monitor and exchange cryptocurrencies owned by the user) as it relates to entries in the blockchain ledger.

[0046]

[0050] Next (step 404), the user uploads one or more ID documents through the digital residency platform and verification system (e.g., through a downloadable application or a website browser interface). The ID document(s) may be, for example, an identification card of FIG. 1 issued by a recognized sovereign jurisdiction. The ID document may be, for example, a driver's license, a state or national issued ID, a passport, a school identification card, a state identification card, a company identification card, etc. Although generally described with respect to jurisdictional entities, the exemplary embodiments described herein may be used by an enterprise to generate employee or user IDs that may be used to provide access and / or privileges to different users.

[0047]

[0051] A user may, for example, upload an ID document by taking a photograph or acquiring a digital scan or image of the document. The system may allow a user to navigate to a stored data file containing an image of the ID document and upload the stored data file to the system. The system may allow a user to take a photograph of the ID document using a camera or other image acquisition device and generate and transmit a data file containing the image of the ID document to a system component described herein. The system may also allow a user to provide other information about the ID document, such as an identification number, date of birth, issue date, expiration date, etc., such as through a user interface. The system may alternatively or additionally use image processing to recognize the image of the ID document from the data file and obtain the required information from the document.

[0048]

[0052] Next (step 406), the digital residency platform and verification system verifies the identity document(s). The document(s) can be verified automatically using machine learning and / or artificial intelligence via facial recognition, optical character recognition for document detail extraction, and a variety of other technologies, or verified manually through a manual review process. Additionally, document verification can be outsourced to additional identity verification technology providers.

[0049]

[0053] Next (step 408), the digital residency platform and validation system may optionally encrypt the image of the ID document and transmit the encrypted file to a sovereign jurisdiction system in the user's selected jurisdiction to create or support a digital ID. The encrypted file of the original ID document may also be stored in cold storage, such as by writing the encrypted contents to a USB drive and then removing the USB drive from the system.

[0050]

[0054] Next (step 410), the digital residency platform and verification system creates a non-fungible token (NFT) for verification. This token is associated with the sovereign jurisdiction and the user-generated identity generated in step 402. The token contains basic information about the verified identity, and may include, for example, a document ID number, jurisdiction, verification URL, and any combination of several claims. A claim may be any characteristic of the user that the system uses for verification. For example, a claim may be an age-related claim, such as over 18, over 21, etc. A claim may be a claim about gender at birth. A claim may be a hashed claim of personal or sensitive information, such as a name that is the same as the claim when hashed. A claim may extend to all or any combination of biographical data the platform knows about the person, such as place of residence, age, age range, sex, height, height range, gender, political affiliation, access level, etc.

[0051]

[0055] Next (step 412), the digital residency platform and validation system may optionally generate a new ID document for the jurisdiction. The new ID document may include personal information, such as a photo, name, address, citizenship, date of birth, etc., similar to IDs issued by other jurisdictions. The new ID document need not include all or any of the personal information. The new ID document may be provided or shipped to a user-provided address or other known location for collection by the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may be configured to generate a new ID document. The new ID document may then be picked up by the user, mailed to the user, or otherwise provided to the user.

[0052]

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the digital residency platform and verification system erases any memory of the ID document received. Thus, the system method may erase or not retain copies or memory of the ID document originally provided, such as in steps 404-406. Thus, the digital residency platform and verification system may provide an additional layer of security because personal information associated with the ID document is not retained and therefore cannot be accessed for unauthorized use or disclosure. Certain other information may also be erased or not retained to improve system and user security. For example, selected personally identifiable information may be erased.

[0053]

[0057] In an example embodiment, the information may be stored in a hashed or encrypted form, for example, one or more claims may be hashed to provide verification that when a third party obtains the information through a platform validation system, the information is correct and matches the hash stored in the ID Token.

[0054]

[0058] Finally (step 414), the one or more claims may be used to verify the attributes of the user. For example, a third party may observe one or more claims of the NFT to verify the attributes of the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the user provides attributes of the new identity to the system, and the system works with the application to verify the user's desired attributes. The system then retrieves or verifies the claims against the user profile.

[0055]

[0059] FIG. 5 illustrates an example block diagram of an overview of a new identification method 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for generating an NFT according to embodiments described herein.

[0056]

[0060] Initially (step 502), a user creates a new account. This step may include the same or similar functionality as described in step 402 of FIG. 4. In an exemplary embodiment, a new ID is created by the system. The system may obtain information about the user, including the user's name, gender, age, residency, etc. The system may also obtain information about one or more ID documents, such as, for example, a driver's license, a passport, a physical identification, etc. The system may obtain information about the physical ID, such as, for example, an issuing entity / jurisdiction (which may be a national government, a corporate entity, a government entity, a jurisdiction, etc.), an ID type (which may be a passport, a driver's license, an identification, etc.), a document identification number, a document issue date, a document expiration date, etc. Additional information, such as an address, eye color, hair color, weight, height, date of birth, etc., may also be obtained and maintained in the system.

[0057]

[0061] Next (step 504), the system populates the new ID fields. The system can be configured to populate the ID fields from the original ID document, and / or from the user, and / or from public information, and / or from information received from a competent entity and / or other sources. The ID fields can be any information related to the new ID. This can include any information related to the original ID and / or the user.

[0058]

[0062] Next (step 506), the system creates a claim statement using any identity information. In an exemplary embodiment, claims can be constructed as statements that are stored with the NFT and made for the original identity or specific information about the user without revealing any underlying information. For example, an age claim can be made such that the user is under 13, over 16, over 18, or over 21 without revealing the user's date of birth. Claims can also be statements about information directly related to the user or identity document, which may be in another format that allows for comparison of information but does not directly provide the information. For example, the user's gender, age, name, photo, etc., or from the original identity document, may be hashed or otherwise encrypted, providing a comparable data source but not providing the information itself. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the information is entered into the system using the same hashing algorithm to be compared to the information stored with the NFT, and if the two hashes match, the information is confirmed, and if the two hashes do not match, the information is denied. Privacy can be maintained because information can be confirmed or verified without actually storing that information in the NFT.

[0059]

[0063] Exemplary embodiments of the new ID may include any combination of information such as, for example, name, date of birth, jurisdiction, expiration date, address, eye color, hair color, weight, gender, identification number, and the like.

[0060]

[0064] Exemplary embodiments of NFTs may include information such as, for example, information related to a person, information related to a document providing identity verification, checks, new ID information, etc. Exemplary embodiments of NFTs may include information that is subject to user approval or is set to be shareable based on user approval. Exemplary embodiments of information related to a person may include, for example, eye color, hair color, weight, height, date of birth, name, etc. Exemplary embodiments of information related to a source document used for verification may include, for example, source identification number, issue date, expiration date, issuing jurisdiction, etc.

[0061]

[0065] An exemplary embodiment of an NFT may include any combination of claims related to the NFT, such as a new identification number, jurisdiction, ID type, gender, validity Boolean, age-related information, etc. The age-related information may be above / below a certain age, which may be related to the age restriction the ID is used for verification. For example, 16+ or 18+ to determine whether the user can drive with or without restrictions, 21+ to determine whether the user can drink alcohol, under 13 to determine whether the user is a child or requires content restrictions, etc. The ID type may include information related to the purpose of the identification, such as, for example, driver's license, passport, identifier, etc. The gender may include a male or female designation. The validity of the ID may be a Boolean true / false identifier indicating whether the ID is still valid. An exemplary embodiment of an NFT may include claims that are subject to user approval and / or set to shareable based on the user's approval. The claims may also include, for example, whether the user is subject to sanctions or other restrictions.

[0062]

[0066] In step 508, security features may be added to, for example, limit the modification or tampering of the NFT data, including user-related information and / or claims. In an exemplary embodiment, metadata about the ID, the image of the NFT, and other information should be protected so that they cannot be modified or tampered with. A cryptographic hash may be used to verify the information of the NFT according to the embodiments described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, a cryptographic hash may be calculated and stored in the blockchain as a first-class citizen of the ID NFT. In an exemplary embodiment, information related to the NFT may be hashed and stored in the blockchain. In an exemplary embodiment, a hash version or standard may be stored in the blockchain along with the root hash. The hash may take into account, for example, the original document ID number, a photo and / or image of the original document, the ID document issue date, the ID document expiration date, whether the ID document is valid, the new document ID number, the new ID issue date, the jurisdiction, the ID type, the user name, the date of birth, the gender, a photo of the new document, a photo of the person, or any other information described herein in connection with the original document, the user, or the new ID. If a field is not available or no information is entered into a given field used in the hash, an empty string may be used in its place.

[0063]

[0067] The claims may also include tamper-evident claims, such as a merkle root cryptographic hash, a hash of a photo of the user, a hash of other attributes of the NFT information, original document information, and / or the NFT claims.

[0064]

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the claims can be stored in the metadata URL. To avoid IPFS and changing the URL to the metadata JSON file, the URL can be, for example, “https: / / api.ms.id.nft / <internal_id> .json". Because this URL is against the backend of the system, the API can return different JSON content each time it is retrieved.

[0065]

[0069] In an exemplary optional embodiment, the metadata of the NFT can be changed, such as with opensea indexing of properties. The system can be configured to publish events periodically, such as once a day, when claims are changed on the NFT.

[0066]

[0070] In step 510, after input of information and / or confirmation of the user's identity, the user may mint the NFT into a wallet. The user may confirm intent to mint into a wallet and provide or select a desired wallet. In an exemplary embodiment, the front end of the system may store the wallet address, account, and identity information in a back end database. Upon storage, a web3 method may be invoked to authorize minting to a particular address. Associated fees may be transferred for the services provided and the generation of the NFT. The user interface may notify the user that the NFT will be airdropped within a specified time frame or to a specified address / chain combination. The back end of the system is configured to listen for events from the blockchain. Once identified on the blockchain, the address is looked up in the database to determine if the address exists, and if confirmed, the identity is airdropped. The address is removed from the database of pending identities to be airdropped. If the address does not exist on the blockchain, the airdrop event may be ignored. Once the identity is airdropped, a new token is created, secured using a security hash (such as the Merkle hash above as an example), a URL is set, and information related to the NFT is stored. When a new identity event is recorded on the blockchain, a mapping is created and the new identity's ID, token identifier, etc. are stored.

[0067]

[0071] Finally (step 512), the open ledger, NFT, and new ID are available for use by the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the claims may be used to verify attributes of the user without providing personal information about the user. For example, one or more claims may be retrieved using a JSON URL as described herein.

[0068]

[0072] As described with respect to the exemplary block diagram of the technical system and the associated methodology above, the exemplary embodiment described herein generates a token that can be used as a sole and final certificate in the Web3 ecosystem. The generated token reflects the availability and participation of the individual in whatever the digital residency platform and verification system is used to verify the user. For example, the generated token can be used to verify whether the user belongs to a desired age group, belongs to a restricted classification, is over a required height, or any other attribute that requires verification. In an exemplary embodiment, the claim can include whether the user belongs to a desired class, such as an accredited investor, political party, etc. The Web3 Identity Document (NFT) is generated using the root legal identity of the user, attested by the original ID document of the jurisdiction. The root legal identity can be other attributes of the user. Preferably, the root legal identity is tied to a verified individual user associated with a sovereign jurisdiction. This relationship can be through citizenship, residency, or other relationships. The digital residency platform and verification system uses the root legal identity and end-to-end encryption to control the exposure of the user's data and identity. In embodiments where the original ID document is not retained in the system, the system may improve security and data / identity exposure for the future and during further transactions / verifications using the system.

[0069]

[0073] At a high level, exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods described herein may provide a universal citizenship card for a global ecosystem. A user may obtain digital residency in a jurisdiction of their choice. An exemplary embodiment of the digital residency may be legally backed by a sovereign nation. An exemplary embodiment may use optional automated know your customer (KYC) and / or anti-money laundering (AML) for additional security. An exemplary embodiment may provide sanctions proof if the user is not on a sanctions list. An exemplary embodiment may provide a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) for governance over jurisdiction support. Each jurisdiction may have different benefits, such as, for example, different income tax rates.

[0070]

[0074] The digital residency platform may utilize tokens that may be acquired by members who use the platform services, and the platform may then use such tokens in connection with members' consumption of the various services described herein.

[0071]

[0075] Exemplary tokens generated by use of the digital residency platform and verification system may be provided based on support, registration, referrals, or any combination thereof. Each service provided by the system may consume tokens on a monthly (or other time interval) basis depending on the user's tier level. Users may earn tokens by performing tasks such as referring others to the system, completing a profile, providing information to the system, upgrading status such as in tier upgrades / NFTs, etc.

[0072]

[0076] NFTs generated according to the workflow described herein can operate on top of tokens to generate or grant layered privileges. For example, the following NFTs can be generated with associated privileges: - Citizen ID NFT: This could be a basic identity non-fungible token that is non-transferable by the user. - Status NFTs: This may represent any status or participation in a jurisdiction and / or group, such as, for example, governor, ambassador, representative, etc. Status NFTs may be transferable based on a user's participation in any particular status category. - Country / Service NFT: This may be created for various services offered by a jurisdiction and launched in the jurisdiction. An exemplary embodiment of a Country / Service NFT may be minted for each service launched in the jurisdiction using a cultural representation from the jurisdiction as a base. Optionally, the NFT may be signed by the jurisdiction, an artist, or other creator. An exemplary embodiment of a Country / Service NFT may be used as a badge or shown in a user profile.

[0073]

[0077] Exemplary digital residency platforms and verification systems and methods may be powered by tokens that reflect an individual's participation in activities, such as, for example, governance, decentralized applications, NFTs, real-world activities, memberships, etc. Exemplary embodiments of tokens may be used to unlock various levels of rights, both virtual and physical. Examples of virtual rights may include real-time identity verification, while physical rights may include access to banking, memberships, and other privileges. Exemplary embodiments of tokens described herein are certificates in the Web3 ecosystem that reflect an individual's availability and participation in anything, such as, for example, governance, decentralized applications, non-fungible tokens, real-world activities, memberships, identifiers, or other validations.

[0074]

[0078] Exemplary embodiments of the digital residency platform and verification system and method may grant users different tiers of privileges, such as quadratic voting and governance of the DAO, recognized contributions in governance, nomination and support of representatives, etc. For example, holders of significant tokens may have the ability to nominate ambassadors. Elected ambassadors can negotiate terms with nations and ecosystem partners on behalf of the community.

[0075]

[0079] An example embodiment of the system described herein may include a digital verification system having a user interface module, one or more application program interfaces (APIs), an identity verification module, and a module for wallet generation and communication to a blockchain open ledger.

[0076]

[0080] An example embodiment of the verification system described herein may include a method of creating a digital identity using the digital verification system, the method including: providing a user interface using a digital citizen user interface module using the digital verification system; creating an identity through the user interface by receiving information about a user; creating a digital wallet using a digital citizen wallet generation module using the digital verification system; receiving a data file associated with the user's original identity document; verifying the user's original identity document; and creating a non-fungible token for verification associated with a sovereign jurisdiction and the identity.

[0077]

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the method may include any combination of additional steps and attributes including, for example, generating a new ID document for the user and the jurisdiction, transmitting the new ID document to the user, encrypting the original ID document and transmitting it to the jurisdiction system, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the data file is an image of the user's original ID document, or the original ID document was issued by a sovereign jurisdiction to verify the user's identity.

[0078]

[0082] Example embodiments described herein may include a method of creating a digital identity using a digital verification system, the method including verifying a user's identity, receiving information about the user, creating the digital identity as a non-fungible token (NFT), associating one or more claims with the NFT, storing the NFT in the user's wallet, and verifying attributes of the user using the claims associated with the NFT.

[0079]

[0083] Exemplary embodiments described herein may include additional features or steps as described herein. For example, the method may additionally or alternatively include any combination of determining one or more claims from received information about the user, hashing the information of the NFT to secure the NFT, and storing the hash in an open ledger or purging the personal information from the system after the NFT is created. Exemplary embodiments may include features such as, for example, at least one claim of the one or more claims being associated with the age group of the user, and / or the NFT being configured to prevent transfer between user wallets, and / or the user's identity being confirmed using an authenticated ID document, and / or information associated with the ID document being purged from the system after authentication, etc.

[0080]

[0084] Exemplary embodiments described herein may include a digital verification system, including an application having a user interface module, an identity verification module, and / or a digital wallet configured to communicate with a blockchain open ledger. The application may be configured to generate a non-fungible token (NFT) associated with a user and associate the NFT with the user's digital wallet. The NFT may include metadata including claims, the claims including information associated with the user but not providing specific information about the user. The claims may include information about the user in a hashed form. The claims may include an indication of an age group. The NFT may be configured to be non-transferable. The digital verification system may be configured through the NFT and / or entries written to the blockchain open ledger to minimize unauthorized alteration of the NFT. The identity verification module may be configured to receive a digital copy of a physical identity document and an image or video of the user and verify the identity of the user against the physical identity document. The claims may be stored in a metadata URL. The claims may be configured to be retrieved using a JSON URL.

[0081]

[0085] Exemplary embodiments described herein may include a system that includes additional functionality described herein. For example, the system may additionally or alternatively include any combination of functionality for creating and / or determining one or more claims from received information about the user, securing the NFT by hashing the information of the NFT and storing the hash in an open ledger, or erasing personal information from the system after the NFT is created. Exemplary embodiments may include functionality such as, for example, at least one claim of the one or more claims being associated with the age group of the user, and / or the NFT being configured to prevent transfer between user wallets, and / or the user's identity being confirmed using an authenticated ID document, and / or information related to the ID document being erased from the system after authentication, etc.

[0082]

[0086] Exemplary embodiments of the system described herein may be based on software and / or hardware. Although specific embodiments of the invention are shown, the invention is not limited to those embodiments. For example, most functions performed by electronic hardware components can be replicated by software emulation. Thus, software programs written to achieve the same functions can emulate the functions of hardware components in input / output circuitry. It should be understood that the invention is not limited by the specific embodiments described herein, but only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0083]

[0087] The terms "about," "substantially," or "approximately" as used herein with respect to numerical values, ranges, shapes, distances, relative relationships, and the like, indicate appropriate dimensional tolerances that allow the collection of parts or components to function for the intended purpose described herein. Numerical ranges may also be provided herein. Unless otherwise indicated, each range is intended to include the endpoints and any quantities within the range provided. Thus, the range 2-4 includes 2, 3, 4, and any subdivision between 2 and 4, for example, 2.1, 2.01, and 2.001. This range also includes any combination of ranges, such as 2-4 includes 2-3 and 3-4.

[0084]

[0088] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. These changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. In particular, exemplary components are described herein. Any combination of these components can be used in any combination. For example, any components, functions, steps, or parts can be integrated, separated, sub-divided, deleted, duplicated, added, or used in any combination and still remain within the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments are merely exemplary and are intended to illustrate, but not limited to, combinations of features.

[0085]

[0089] The terms "comprise" and "comprise" and variations thereof, when used in this specification and claims, mean that the specified features, steps, or integers are included. These terms are not to be interpreted as excluding the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0086]

[0090] While the features disclosed in the foregoing description, the following claims, or the accompanying drawings may be expressed as appropriate in their respective specific forms, or in terms of means for performing a disclosed function, or in a manner for achieving a disclosed result, these features can be used individually or in any combination to realize the invention in its various forms.

Claims

1. 1. A digital authentication system comprising: an application having a user interface module; an ID verification module; A digital wallet configured to communicate with the blockchain open ledger; Including, The application is configured to generate a non-fungible token (NFT) associated with a user and associate the NFT with the user's digital wallet. Digital Verification System.

2. 2. The digital authentication system of claim 1, wherein the NFT includes metadata including claims, the claims including information related to the user but not providing specific information about the user.

3. 3. The digital authentication system of claim 2, wherein the claim includes information about the user in a hashed form.

4. 3. The digital authentication system of claim 2, wherein the claim includes an indication of an age group.

5. 3. The digital authentication system of claim 2, wherein the NFT is configured to be non-transferable, and the digital authentication system is configured to minimize unauthorized alteration of the NFT through the NFT and / or entries written to the blockchain open ledger.

6. 5. The digital authentication system of claim 4, wherein the ID verification module is configured to receive a digital copy of a physical ID document and an image or video of the user and verify the identity of the user against the physical ID document.

7. 10. The digital authentication system of claim 1, wherein the claim is stored in a metadata URL.

8. 10. The digital authentication system of claim 1, wherein the claim is configured to be retrieved using a JSON URL.

9. 1. A method of creating a digital ID using a digital authentication system, comprising: providing a user interface using a Digital Citizen user interface module using a digital verification system; creating an ID through the user interface by receiving information about a user; creating a digital wallet using the digital citizen's wallet creation module using the digital verification system; receiving a data file associated with the user's original ID document; verifying the original ID document of the user; Creating a non-fungible token for sovereign jurisdiction and verification associated with said identity; The method includes:

10. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising generating a new identity document for the user and the jurisdiction.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising transmitting the new ID document to the user.

12. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising encrypting and transmitting the original ID document to a jurisdiction system.

13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the data file is an image of the original ID document of the user.

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the original ID document is issued by a sovereign jurisdiction to verify the identity of the user.

15. 1. A method of creating a digital ID using a digital authentication system, comprising: Verifying the identity of the user; receiving information about the user; Creating digital identities as non-fungible tokens (NFTs); Associating one or more claims with the NFT; storing said NFT in the user's wallet; Verifying an attribute of the user using the claim associated with the NFT. The method includes:

16. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising determining one or more claims from the received information about the user.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one claim of the one or more claims is related to an age group of a user.

18. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising securing the NFT by hashing information in the NFT and storing the hash in an open ledger.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the NFT is configured to prevent transfer between user wallets.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the user's identity is confirmed using an authenticated ID document.

21. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein after authentication, information associated with the ID document is erased from the system.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising erasing personal information from the system after creation of the NFT.

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