Abstract: A method of authenticating the identity of a user is disclosed. The method may include registering a user, where registering the user includes receiving identification of a plurality of individuals associated with the user and a communication address for each of the plurality of individuals. The method may also include receiving a request to authenticate the identity of the user. The method may further include selecting at least one of the plurality of individuals to serve as an authentication agent. The method may additionally include initiating at least a first communication between the user and the authentication agent via the communication address. The method may moreover include receiving a second communication from the authentication agent. The method may furthermore include sending a message indicating the identity of the user is authenticated based at least in part on the second communication including a confirmation of the identity of the user.

Abstract: A method of authenticating the identity of a user is disclosed. The method may include registering a user, where registering the user includes receiving identification of a plurality of individuals associated with the user and a communication address for each of the plurality of individuals. The method may also include receiving a request to authenticate the identity of the user. The method may further include selecting at least one of the plurality of individuals to serve as an authentication agent. The method may additionally include initiating at least a first communication between the user and the authentication agent via the communication address. The method may moreover include receiving a second communication from the authentication agent. The method may furthermore include sending a message indicating the identity of the user is authenticated based at least in part on the second communication including a confirmation of the identity of the user.

Abstract: A method for authenticating the identity of a principal is provided. The method may include storing security information related to a principal which includes a plurality of guardians, as well as contact information and rating information for each. The method may include storing a security policy related to a requester, the security policy comprising a security set having verification parameters. The method may include receiving a request to authenticate the identity of the principal. The method may include selecting particular guardians based at least in part on the verification parameters. The method may include establishing communication links, using the contact information, between the principal and each of selected guardians. The method may include determining a result of each communication link authentication session, and based at least in part on the results, the rating information, and the verification parameters determining whether the principal is authenticated.