What Would A National Internet ID Mean for You

When the White House announced plans to create an Internet ID for all Americans, the details were vague and opinions were split. "Let's be clear: We're not talking about a national ID card. We're not talking about a government-controlled system," U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said in announcing the effort, aimed at enhancing security and minimizing the need for citizens to remember multiple passwords online. So what then, exactly, is the administration talking about, and what does it mean for you? We take a closer look.

When the White House announced plans to create an Internet ID for all Americans, the details were vague and opinions were split.

“Let’s be clear: We’re not talking about a national ID card. We’re not talking about a government-controlled system,” U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said in announcing the effort, aimed at enhancing security and minimizing the need for citizens to remember multiple passwords online.

So what then, exactly, is the administration talking about, and what does it mean for you? We take a closer look.

What is a National Internet ID?

The National Internet ID is “not a national ID card,” emphasized Secretary Locke.

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