SoftBank, TBCASoft launch blockchain identification working group under CBSG

U.S.-based blockchain firm TBCASoft and Japan-based SoftBank are launching a blockchain-based working group under the Carrier Blockchain Study Group (CBSG), the global blockchain consortium of telecom carriers.

Launched in September 2017, CBSG aims to build a next-generation global cross-carrier blockchain platform and ecosystem. In addition to TBCASoft and SoftBank, founding members include U.S.-based Sprint Corporation and Taiwan-based Far EasTone Telecommunications. The consortium has also been joined by LG Uplus, KT Corporation, and UAE-based Etisalat Telecommunication Corporation, among others.

According to the official release, TBCASoft has created a new foundation application framework, called CrossCarrier Identification System (CCIS), which will focus on enabling identification and authentication services.

The “Identification & Authentication” Working Group will be led by SoftBank and TBCASoft and will be open to CBSG Consortium members around the world.

Unlike the conventional centralized services, CCIS provides a blockchain-based solution operated by independent CBSG carrier members under a CCIS Cross-Carrier Consensus with carrier-grade reliability. It will enable issuing, storing and authenticating a user’s identification without having to reveal private detailed information that the user may not want or need to share.

"We envision that individuals should create encrypted digital identities, instead of using and storing multiple usernames and passwords on databases here and there with various qualities of privacy protection,” Takeshi Fukuizumi, VP of SoftBank said.

“We have been working with TBCASoft on solving identification and authentication problems, and have an answer with CCIS. We believe that telecom operators under the CBSG Consortium will play very important roles in the global identity business."