Vitalik Buterin Proposes Pluralistic Identity Model to Protect Digital Privacy

Ethereum co-founder warns against one-ID systems that could erode pseudonymity

Vitalik Buterin has proposed a new identity model called pluralistic identity to address privacy concerns in digital ID systems. He shared the idea in a recent blog post, warning that enforcing a single ID per person can harm pseudonymity and limit freedom in online spaces.

The Ethereum co-founder’s proposal arrives amid growing use of zero-knowledge (ZK) proofs in identity projects. While these tools protect personal data, Buterin explained that centralized identity control still poses serious risks.

One-ID Systems Threaten Privacy

Several ID platforms now use ZK proofs to verify identity without exposing personal details. Examples include World ID, Taiwan’s digital ID, and upcoming EU initiatives. However, Buterin argued that even these systems could force users into a single, trackable profile.

He cautioned that platforms might eliminate the option to maintain separate pseudonymous identities. In many real-world scenarios, people use multiple accounts to safeguard their privacy. Forcing users to consolidate into one ID removes that choice.

Buterin warned that such systems could lead to increased surveillance by governments or employers. When all online activity links to a single ID, users lose the flexibility to separate different aspects of their lives.

Vitalik Buterin Pluralistic Identity Proposal

To address these risks, Buterin introduced the Vitalik Buterin pluralistic identity model. This concept promotes systems with no single authority controlling identity issuance. Instead, it suggests a distributed model with multiple ID sources such as government documents, social platforms, and community networks.

This approach increases error tolerance and enhances inclusivity. Stateless individuals or those without official IDs can still participate. Systems like Circles already explore this model using social graphs for verification.

Buterin emphasized that a pluralistic system balances privacy and usability better than a one-size-fits-all model. It resists monopolies while supporting diverse communities.

Combining Privacy and Fair Access

Anti-Sybil measures methods to prevent fake or duplicate identities are a major concern in decentralized platforms. Buterin rejected wealth-based identity proof as unfair, arguing it excludes low-income users and centralizes power.