The Multidimensionality of Digital Identity
Digital identity is not a singular entity but is composed of multiple dimensions. According to Fanny Georges, digital identity can be divided into three main dimensions: declarative identity, behavioral identity, and computed identity.
Declarative identity refers to the information that users actively share, such as personal profiles and interests; behavioral identity is reflected in users’ actions in the digital environment, such as social media interactions and online shopping; computed identity is the user profile derived through algorithms and data analysis. This multidimensionality makes digital identity more complex and dynamic.
Technology and Identity Construction
With the development of technology, the way digital identities are constructed is constantly evolving. The emergence of the third generation of the Internet (Web3.0) has made digital identity construction more reliant on multimodal design,
such as biometric and blockchain technologies.
These technologies not only enhance the security and credibility of identity authentication but also provide users with more autonomy. For example, new models such as Decentralized Digital Identity (DID) and Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) give individuals control over their own identity information, enhancing privacy protection.
Social Interaction and Identity Recognition
The construction of digital identity does not occur in isolation but is closely related to social interaction. According to sociological theory, an individual’s identity is gradually formed through interaction with the social environment. In the digital world, this interaction is reflected in social media, online communities, and other forms. For example, users’ interactions and sharing on social media not only showcase their personal interests and values but also influence how others perceive and evaluate them. This interactive process gives digital identity a stronger social attribute.
Challenges and Opportunities of Identity Construction
The construction of digital identity brings many opportunities but also faces some challenges. On the one hand, digital identity provides users with more opportunities for self-expression and social interaction, which helps to enhance personal self-identity and social belonging. On the other hand, issues of privacy protection and security of digital identity have become increasingly prominent. For example, data breaches and identity theft occur from time to time, posing significant risks to users.
Therefore, how to find a balance between technological development and social interaction is an important issue facing the construction of digital identity.
References
Wu, Q., Huang, Y. & Xiao, S. (2025) Construction and design of digital identity. Decoration, 2025.
Wang, H., Li, B. & Xie, T. (2022) Theoretical construction of self‑avatar in the digital world. Computers in Human Behavior, 61, 165‑175.
Professional and Academic Digital Identity Workshop for Higher Education Students. Information, 13(4), 90. DOI: 10.3390/info13100490.
Chen, J., Cai, Z., Qi, J. & Fang, B. (2025) Design of a cross‑border decentralized digital identity framework. China Engineering Science, 27(1), 88‑97.
Charest, F., Alcantara, C., Lavigne, A. & Moumouni, C. E‑reputation: a concept between digital traces and identity.
