Pseudonymity

Synonyms

Nymity

Definition

The term pseudonymous originates from the Greek word “pseudonymos” meaning “having a false name.”

A pseudonym is an identifier of a subject other than one of the subject’s real names, and pseudonymity is the use of pseudonyms as identifiers. Sender pseudonymity is defined as the sender being pseudonymous, recipient pseudonymity as the recipient being pseudonymous [2].

Key Points

Pseudonymity resembles anonymity as both concepts aim at protecting the real identity of a subject. The use of pseudonyms, however, allows one to maintain a reference to the subject’s real identity, e.g., for accountability purposes [1]. A trusted third party, adhering to agreed rules, could for instance reveal the real identities of misbehaving pseudonymous users. Pseudonymity also allows a user to link certain actions under one pseudonym. For instance, a user could re-use the same pseudonym for purchasing items at a certain online shop for building up a reputation or for collecting...