Validen

Validen is a term used in theoretical discussions and some software projects to describe a compact, cross-domain credential verification format intended to support rapid validation of claims across organizational boundaries. In this context, a validen credential is a portable assertion that binds a holder to a set of claims, together with verifiable proofs that can be checked by any trusted verifier.

Structure and contents usually associated with a validen credential include an identifier, an issuer, a subject (holder), issuance date, optional expiration date, a set of claims, and a cryptographic proof. The proof is typically a digital signature created by the issuer, allowing verifiers to confirm authenticity without needing to contact the issuer directly. To enable broad interoperability, validen designs commonly specify encoding rules, a verification algorithm, and a lightweight trust framework for public keys or certificates.

Key characteristics often emphasized in validen discussions are privacy-preserving features, such as selective disclosure (revealing only certain claims) and revocation mechanisms to invalidate credentials when appropriate. Many proposed implementations explore compatibility with existing standards for digital signatures and with broader credential ecosystems, including concepts similar to verifiable credentials in other standards efforts.

Applications commonly envisioned for validen include cross-organizational identity verification, access control in multi-tenant environments, and attestations in supply chains or regulatory contexts. While the concept shares goals with established verifiable credential technologies, validen remains a fictional or illustrative construct used to explore design trade-offs around portability, privacy, and trust in credential verification systems. See also: digital signatures, verifiable credentials, credential revocation.