PGP/Thawte ID Assertion Guidelines

last updated: 23/04/07

So, you want me to assert your ID for your PGP key or Thawte cert, eh?

Find trust paths from your PGP key to mine

These little tools will help you see how much improvement in your Web of Trust connectivity you can achieve by having me sign your key.

Find trust paths from your key to my new-style (DSS) PGP key

This is the key I use most commonly now.

Find trust paths from your key to my old-style (RSA) PGP key

This is the key listed in the Global Internet Trust Register.

Here are some general guidelines:

We need to meet in person.
You should already have gone through the process to get a Thawte ID and/or PGP key before seeing me.
Make sure that you bring the original documents that you used when you signed up for your Thawte cert.

That means that if you used your social security number, I will only accept your Social Security Card (no exceptions...not even your medical card that has your SSN on it).
If you’ve switched your Thawte registration over so it’s based on your email address (or your Thawte ID is new enough that it’s always been that way), then we must establish email contact as mentioned below, using that same address.

Please bring photocopies of your documents as well. Each notary has to retain one of the photocopies, per Thawte's requirements.
I work in Brisbane, half way between San Francisco Airport and Candlestick.

Points system:

For Thawte certificates, I use the following system to compute how many points I’ll give you (minimum requirement: 20 points). For PGP, I use the same point system, but I only sign keys if you can provide at least 20 points of ID.

I can assign up to 35 points, based on the strength of the credentials you present.

5 points if we establish email contact (you email me, I email you)
5 points if we establish phone directory contact (I call information, get your number, you answer)
5 points for a SSN card
5 points for a non-California driver’s license or state ID
10 points for a CA driver's license or CA state ID
10 points for a US Passport (sorry, I can't do non-US passports, because I wouldn't know how to spot a forgery)

It takes 50 points for you to get your fullname installed into your Thawte cert.
It takes 100 points for you to become a Thawte notary. (read this first)

Looking for a Thawte Notary in your area? Check out the Thawte Notary directory and Roadshow listing!