DIATF: What it is and why it is important

The UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF) is an initiative by the UK government to create a secure and interoperable system for digital identity verification. The primary aim of the DIATF is to streamline and enhance the process of verifying individuals’ identities online while building trust among users, businesses, and service providers.

At its core, the framework is designed to ensure security and privacy, minimizing the risk of fraud and protecting personal information. It establishes a common set of standards that allows different digital identity systems to work together seamlessly, promoting interoperability. The framework also emphasizes the importance of trust and confidence, ensuring that digital identities are accurate and reliable. Additionally, it is promoted as prioritizing user control, giving individuals the power to manage their personal data and how it is shared.

The DIATF consists of several key components. It outlines technical and operational standards that digital identity providers must follow, covering aspects such as identity verification procedures, data security measures, and interoperability requirements. These standards ensure that identity verification processes are robust and that personal data is protected from unauthorized access and breaches.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is responsible for the framework and the related certification process.

Accreditation and certification are critical elements of the framework. Organizations seeking to be recognized as trusted digital identity providers must undergo a rigorous assessment to determine if they meet the required standards. If successful, they receive certification, which serves as a mark of trustworthiness. This process ensures that only reliable and secure providers operate within the ecosystem.

Governance and oversight are also integral to the DIATF. The framework includes structures to monitor compliance and ensure ongoing adherence to the standards. Regular checks and audits of certified providers are conducted to maintain the integrity of the system. If a provider fails to comply with the standards, there are mechanisms in place to address non-compliance, including the potential revocation of certification.

As of June 21, 2024, there are 50 certified digital identity and attribute service providers.

Benefits of the DIATF

The DIATF offers numerous benefits to various stakeholders. For individuals, it simplifies the process of proving identity online, reducing the need for physical documents, and enhancing the protection of personal data. Users gain greater control over their data, deciding how and with whom it is shared. For businesses, the framework builds consumer confidence by ensuring high standards of security and reliability.

It streamlines processes requiring identity verification, such as onboarding new customers or employees, and helps businesses comply with regulations related to identity verification and data protection. Right to work, right to rent and DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service, or criminal background) checks are carried out through the framework.

Public services also benefit from the DIATF, as it enhances the delivery of services by enabling secure and efficient identity verification. The framework builds public trust in digital services and facilitates the integration of digital identity systems across different sectors and services.

The UK government is implementing the DIATF in collaboration with industry stakeholders. This cooperative approach ensures that the framework meets the diverse needs of users, businesses, and public services. As technology evolves and new challenges emerge, the DIATF will be continuously updated and refined to maintain its relevance and effectiveness.

The UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework represents a key step towards an efficient digital identity ecosystem. By establishing clear standards and robust governance, the DIATF aims to build confidence in digital identities and encourage their widespread adoption.

Article Topics

DIATF certification  |  digital identity  |  Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF)  |  identity verification  |  interoperability  |  standards  |  trust framework  |  UK