Ken Griggs on Ash Said It: The Future of Digital Identity
Our CEO Ken Griggs recently joined Ash Brown on the Ash Said It Show for a timely conversation about digital identity, privacy, and the UK's proposed nationwide digital ID system. Here's what you need to know.
The Big Question: Security or Surveillance?
When the UK government announced plans for a nationwide digital ID system, it sparked a global debate about the future of digital rights. On the surface, these systems promise convenience—easier access to public services, streamlined verification, reduced fraud. But as Ken explains in this eye-opening interview, the reality is far more complex.
"When you centralize the identity of an entire nation in a single database, you're creating a high-risk honey pot for hackers and state actors," Ken warns. "It's not a question of if it gets breached—it's when."
Why Centralization Is Dangerous
During the 16-minute conversation, Ken breaks down three critical problems with centralized digital ID systems:
1. Single Point of Failure
When millions of identities live in one database, a single breach compromises everyone. We've seen this play out with massive data breaches at Equifax, Target, and countless other centralized systems. Now imagine that, but with your government-issued identity.
2. Surveillance Potential
Centralized systems give governments unprecedented tracking capabilities. Every time you verify your identity, that action can be logged, tracked, and analyzed. This creates a detailed map of your daily life—where you go, what services you use, who you interact with.
3. Loss of Data Sovereignty
In centralized systems, you don't own your data—the institution does. You can't delete it. You can't control who sees it. You're entirely dependent on that institution to protect it, manage it, and not misuse it.
The Decentralized Alternative
This is where Ken's work at not.bot and Julia Social comes in. As he explains to Ash, there's a better way:
You own your identity. You control your data. You choose when and how to share it.
Instead of storing everyone's information in a centralized database, decentralized identity uses cryptographic proofs. Your identity information lives on your device. When you need to verify yourself, you create a cryptographic signature that proves who you are—without revealing any underlying data.
It's the difference between showing your entire driver's license to prove you're over 21, versus simply proving the fact that you're over 21 without revealing your name, address, or photo.
Why This Conversation Matters Now
The UK's digital ID legislation is being watched worldwide. If they implement a centralized system, other countries will follow. If they adopt a decentralized, privacy-preserving approach, it could set a new standard for digital rights globally.
As Ken tells Ash: "The choices we make about digital identity today will determine what privacy looks like for the next generation. We can't afford to get this wrong."
Watch the Full Episode
The full conversation covers much more, including:
- How blockchain technology enables decentralized identity
- Why "convenience vs. privacy" is a false choice
- Practical steps you can take to protect your digital identity today
- The role of not.bot in the future of digital verification
Watch now: Ash Said It Show - Episode 2150
About the Ash Said It Show
The Ash Said It Show is a top-ranked podcast with over 2,100 episodes and 700,000+ global listens. Host Ash Brown brings her signature "Authentic Optimism" to conversations with changemakers across all industries, delivering uplifting energy and actionable strategies for personal and professional growth.
Learn more at AshSaidit.com