Prove Acquires Portabl to Expand Digital Identity Verification Capabilities

Prove has acquired Portabl, a digital identity company specializing in reusable ID verification and networks.A Mastercard Start Path graduate, Portabl brings backing from notable investors including Harlem Capital, 6th Man Ventures, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Dorm Room Fund.

The acquisition will enhance Prove’s mobile-based identity solutions by incorporating Portabl’s W3C standards-compliant approach to verifiable credentials. This alignment with W3C standards follows a broader industry trend toward standardized digital credentials. The combined platform aims to enable businesses to verify users, establish trust networks, and address emerging fraud threats.

Portabl’s technology enables users to store verifications securely in a device-independent wallet, allowing them to share specific attributes and credentials as needed. This approach aligns with emerging digital identity wallet initiatives, such as the European Union’s cross-border digital identity wallet standards, and eliminates redundant verification processes while maintaining streamlined customer onboarding.

“Joining forces with Prove is acknowledgment that our approach to reusable ID represents the future of verification, authentication, and authorization,” stated Nate Soffio, CEO of Portabl. “Prove has an incredible network, and we’re excited to apply what we’ve done to simplify access and keep people and businesses safe.”

The integrated solution offers several key features, including streamlined customer onboarding, reduced fraud across high-risk transactions, durable trust networks with real-time signals, and enhanced privacy protection. Portabl’s technology stack is built on W3C standards, digital signatures, and privacy-enhancing technologies, with a focus on data interoperability and consent management – critical components for modern digital identity systems as outlined in recent frameworks for privacy-preserving digital identity.

“Acquiring Portabl, with their deep expertise of identity standards and consumer experiences, accelerates Prove’s leadership in this space,” said Dan Killmer, SVP Head of Product at Prove. “Together, we’re shaping the future where Prove is the trusted leader in delivering durable, low-friction authentication methods.”

The combination of Portabl’s technology with Prove’s existing infrastructure, which manages one billion ID tokens, positions the company to develop what it describes as the industry’s largest trust network. This development comes at a time when major organizations worldwide are increasingly focusing on building robust digital identity ecosystems, as evidenced by recent initiatives from government agencies and financial institutions.

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January 14, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team