The City of Buenos Aires has teamed up with ZKSync. This partnership allows 3.6 million residents to use blockchain technology for their digital identity. Over 60 documents will be accessible through this new platform.
They named the new system QuarkID. It builds on an earlier digital identity program, enhancing privacy and security with trustless blockchain technology.
On October 22, Buenos Aires and ZKSync announced QuarkID. This initiative focuses on protecting individual privacy. It uses blockchain and zero-knowledge cryptography, giving eligible citizens better access to government services.
ZKSync joined this project after facing some tough times. By July 2024, the network saw a 66% drop in active addresses, and its ZK token has struggled consistently. This collaboration could help boost the company's visibility and possibly lead to a recovery.
QuarkID is built on miBA, an existing digital profile platform in Buenos Aires. All miBA users can now access this blockchain solution, which brings several upgrades. QuarkID improves backend processes while keeping a similar user experience. The trustless software ensures that personal information isn't stored on government servers.
Jorge Macri, the Chief of Government of Buenos Aires, commented, “The integration of zero-knowledge blockchain technology into our digital identity system is a significant milestone. It positions us globally and shows Buenos Aires as a leader in innovation. This is a key step toward more secure and transparent digital solutions.”
This digital identity program is part of a broader movement toward crypto and blockchain adoption in Argentina. After the pro-Bitcoin candidate Javier Milei won the presidential election last year, many new Web3 projects have emerged. As the capital, Buenos Aires is a natural starting point for these initiatives.
QuarkID aims to provide millions with a secure way to access various government services. Citizens will be able to access birth, marriage, and death certificates, driver’s licenses, vaccine records, tax information, and more than 60 other documents. Plus, ZKSync’s trustless blockchain technology will keep all this information private for the people of Argentina.