Buenos Aires Launches Blockchain-Based Digital ID Service
The city government of Buenos Aires has introduced a blockchain-based digital ID service called QuarkID. This service aims to securely store official documents such as marriage and death certificates. QuarkID is built on Matter Labs’ zkSync Era rollup technology and incorporates elements from Argentina-based startup Extrimian.
Securely Store and Access Personal Identification Documents
Starting in October, Buenos Aires residents can download the QuarkID wallet to store and access their personal identification documents, according to The Block. In November, the service will expand to include additional documents like proof of income, academic attendance certificates, and benefit claim documents.
Decentralized Identity Protocol
The digital ID service utilizes a decentralized identity protocol and incorporates technology from Extrimian, as reported by The Block. The application itself is built on Matter Labs’ zkSync Era rollup, which is a layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum.
Enabling Secure and Efficient Digital Interactions
The aim of this digital trust framework, according to Diego Fernandez, the Buenos Aires City Government Secretary of Innovation, is to function as a public good. It aims to give individuals control over their data and enable secure and efficient digital interactions between the government, companies, and citizens.
Verified Credentials Issued by Buenos Aires Local Government
Pablo Mosquella, COO of Extrimian, explained that the documents stored in the QuarkID wallet are issued as “verified credentials” by the Buenos Aires local government. These credentials are stored on the individual’s device and can be presented for verification in various situations.
Digital Documents as an Alternative to Traditional Paper Documents
Initially, the digital documents will serve as an alternative to traditional paper documents, but legislative changes are underway to grant these digital credentials the same legal standing as physical counterparts. These changes are currently being developed and are expected to be discussed in the near future.
Legislative Amendments for Digital Credentials
The Buenos Aires local government is actively working on legislative amendments to ensure that digital credentials hold the same legal validity as physical documents. These changes are still in development and are expected to be debated soon.
Hot Take: Blockchain-Based Digital ID Service in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is taking a significant step towards digitizing official documents with the launch of its blockchain-based digital ID service, QuarkID. By securely storing personal identification documents and expanding its offerings to include additional documents, Buenos Aires aims to provide individuals with control over their data and enable secure digital interactions. The use of decentralized identity protocol and Matter Labs’ zkSync Era rollup technology ensures the privacy and efficiency of this service. While initially serving as an alternative to traditional paper documents, legislative changes are being pursued to grant these digital credentials legal standing. This move highlights Buenos Aires’ commitment to embracing blockchain technology for improved governance and citizen services.
By
By
By
By