The process of verifying the identity of a user, process, or device, usually as a prerequisite for granting access to resources in an IT system. (SP 800-47) (NISTIR) The process of discovering the true identity (i.e., origin, initial history) of a person or item from the entire collection of similar persons or items. (FIPS 201) (NISTIR) An act or process that presents an identifier to a system so that the system can recognize a system entity (e.g., user, process, or device) and distinguish that entity from all others. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
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The process of verifying the identity of a user, process, or device, usually as a prerequisite for granting access to resources in an IT system. (SP 800-47) (NISTIR) The process of discovering the true identity (i.e., origin, initial history) of a person or item from the entire collection of similar persons or items. (FIPS 201) (NISTIR) An act or process that presents an identifier to a system so that the system can recognize a system entity (e.g., user, process, or device) and distinguish that entity from all others. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Identification. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/identification
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