> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fairway.global/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fairway.global/learn/introduction-to-digital-identity-and-verifiable-credentials/the-trust-triangle.md).
# The Trust Triangle
The **Trust Triangle** is the foundation of Verifiable Credentials and Decentralized Identity. It ensures that **identity verification is decentralized, secure, and user-controlled**.
#### **1️⃣ Issuer**
A **trusted authority** (government, university, employer, financial institution) **creates and digitally signs Verifiable Credentials (VCs)**. These credentials confirm facts such as **educational qualifications, work experience, or identity documents**.
#### **2️⃣ Holder**
The **individual or organization** that receives, stores, and manages credentials in their **digital identity wallet**. Holders can **selectively disclose** parts of their credentials when needed.
#### **3️⃣ Verifier**
An **entity (business, government agency, online service)** that requests and verifies specific identity attributes from a user’s credentials without accessing excessive personal data.
#### **How the Trust Triangle Works**
1. **Issuer** (e.g., a university) signs and issues a diploma as a **Verifiable Credential (VC)**.
2. **Holder** (graduate) stores the diploma in their **self-sovereign identity wallet**.
3. **Verifier** (potential employer) requests proof of degree completion. The graduate shares the credential via cryptographic proof without revealing unnecessary personal details.
🔗 **Sources:**
* W3C Verifiable Credentials Trust Model:
* European Digital Identity Framework (EUDI):