Verifiable Identity Claims and Delegation Model (VICDM)

This document defines a conceptual framework for handling identity assertions in application-layer protocols. It introduces a model in which identity on the Internet is optional, but any asserted identity MUST be verifiable. It further defines a delegation mechanism that allows entities to authorize third-party infrastructure to act on their behalf in a verifiable and transparent manner. The goal is to reduce identity misrepresentation while fully preserving the ability for anonymous and pseudonymous interaction. This document does not define a protocol; it defines the principles that protocol specifications SHOULD follow when addressing agent identity. A concrete protocol implementation of these principles is defined in [SAIP].