The future of identification is digital – and it starts with PID
Digital identities are the backbone of the digital transformation. They enable citizens, companies and public authorities to carry out legally compliant processes online. This concept is currently being implemented in the European Union with the introduction of the EUDI Wallet (European Digital Identity Wallet).
The central element of this wallet is the PID – Personal Identification Data. It is much more than a digital profile: it is the digital version of the official identity document and provides binding proof of one’s identity in the digital world.
What is the PID?
The PID contains a person’s basic identity data – machine-readable, securely stored and issued by a trustworthy organisation. This includes:
- First name and surname
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- A unique, state-issued identifier
This information is sufficient to identify a person unambiguously and legally – regardless of whether they are registering with a digital service, opening a bank account or signing an electronic contract.
Focus on security, data protection and legal binding
What distinguishes PID from conventional online identities is the high requirements for security, data protection and integrity. The data comes from official sources, is stored in certified systems and is closely linked to strong authentication – e.g. via biometric verification or PIN.
The PID is therefore not only trustworthy, but also legally compliant – a crucial difference compared to simple logins or identity data used on social media platforms or in classic customer accounts.
The EUDI Wallet: More than just a digital ID card
The PID is the basis of every EUDI wallet. But the wallet can do much more: In addition to the PID, other digital evidence can be stored – such as professional qualifications, academic degrees, driver’s licenses or other officially issued attributes. In addition, attributes issued by non-governmental institutions (e.g. banks, educational institutions, mobility companies,…) can also be stored – e.g. account certificates, certificates of completion or simply transport tickets. This also provides an opportunity for exhibitors to monetize the wallet for themselves.
These so-called EAA (Electronic Attestations of Attributes) or QEAA (Qualified Electronic Attestations of Attributes) make it possible to provide exactly the information that a service provider or authority needs, depending on the situation – no more, but also no less. The result is a flexible, data-saving and at the same time legally binding identity solution for the whole of Europe.
For whom is PID relevant?
For citizens
PGD is the key to a comfortable and safe everyday life in digital Europe. Whether you want to file a tax return online, rent an apartment, apply for a loan or register a car – with PID it works quickly, easily and reliably, without having to be physically on site. At the same time, users retain full control over what data they share, when and with whom. Important reminder: The use of the wallet is voluntary for everyone.
For companies
Whether in banking, insurance, e-commerce or human resources, companies benefit from PID through automated, secure and cost-efficient processes – from customer authentication to contract signing. Legally compliant identification thus becomes part of digital customer onboarding, contract management and compliance.
For authorities and administrations
PID opens up new opportunities for administrations to provide digital administrative services in a citizen-oriented and efficient manner – across national and language borders. It forms the basis for interoperable e-government services throughout the EU, without media disruptions and with the highest security standards.
Namirial: Your platform for legally effective digital identities
As a Qualified Trust Service Provider under the eIDAS Regulation, Namirial is ideally positioned to actively shape the launch of the EUDI Wallet. Our wallet platform enables the integration and management of PID – data protection compliant, interoperable and future-proof.
Our solution at a glance:
- Integration of PGD in accordance with EU requirements
- Compatibility with other digital certificates (EAA / QEAA)
- Link to qualified electronic signatures and seals
- Secure storage on European infrastructure
- Intuitive user guidance – mobile and web-based
