
If you’re reading this, you’re probably feeling it too—the lines between physical and digital, trust and doubt, privacy and control, work and home, real and fake—they’re all starting to blur.
I mention this in my editor’s note as well, but it’s such an eye-opener: when a year’s worth of rain fell on Spain’s Valencia region in just one day—more than 490 litres per square metre in eight hours—the devastation was undeniable. Yet, as Guardian reported, many dismissed the photos of the flooding as AI-generated. The images were real, but the doubt was just as real—and that’s just another challenge we’re facing with the widespread adoption of AI.
In this edition of IAM 360, we explore how the boundaries around identity, regulation, content, and verification are stretching in non-linear ways. From deepfakes and passwordless technology to the consumerization of employee identities, the roles and expectations tied to identity are shifting—and not in predictable ways.
Here’s a preview of what’s inside:
How do we prove we’re real when AI can create a “you” that never existed? Philippe Vallée unpacks why digital identity is our frontline defense in the fight against synthetic identities. We also dig into the rise of machine-led decision-making—where AI systems manage identity at scale—and explore the ethical and security implications that come with it.
The divide between consumer and employee identity is eroding fast. In an era where we expect intuitive, seamless digital experiences everywhere, workplace tools are finally catching up. As Jason Keenaghan puts it, “Expectations for IAM in the workplace have changed dramatically; user experience (UX) and employee experience (EX) are meeting.” In other words: if it’s clunky, it’s done.
One of the most compelling shifts we explore is what we’re calling Identity 3.0. Bill Nelson from Identity Fusion takes us on a tour of how we got here—and what’s changed. In his breakdown, he compares Identity 2.0 to Identity 3.0 and offers insights on how organizations can prepare for what’s next. Expect a thoughtful roadmap on navigating this next era of identity.
We break down the EU AI Act and the EU Data act and what it means for the identity industry. Spoiler: it’s not just about compliance—it’s about preparing for the future where AI is increasingly woven into our lives. With AI advancing at a rapid pace, we help translate regulatory frameworks into practical insights you can actually use.
Simon Moffat, CEO of The Cyber Hut and published author, shares his thoughts on what he calls the perfect IAM storm. He reflects on the shifting meaning of identity and what it means for leaders navigating today’s landscape. He also explores the difficult parts on measuring IAM success about measuring identity success and leans in on the passwordless debate, which takes me to the next topic; passkeys.
There’s a revolution happening right under our fingertips: passkeys. As Pedro Martinez explains, “Passkeys are well on their way to replacing passwords as the main means to access all kinds of digital services.” But it’s not just about logging in—it’s about paying, shopping, and interacting with apps with less friction and more security. We explore how passkeys are reshaping both the payments ecosystem and the broader IAM landscape.
At IAM 360, we’re proud of our commitment to clarity. Not everything needs to be wrapped in jargon. Our regular column, IAM Academy, brings expert advice in plain English. In this issue, Sarah Lefavrais breaks down multi-factor authentication (MFA)—what it is, how to use it smarter, and why it doesn’t have to be a headache.
Generative AI is blurring the lines between what’s crafted by humans and what’s created by machines. As adults, we’re watching this shift unfold in both our workplaces and personal lives. But what about the next generation—are they the first AI natives? We sat down with children’s author Bessie Check, author of Luna and the Magic AI Paintbrush, to explore how parents and educators can introduce AI concepts to kids in a meaningful, age-appropriate way.
The truth is, identity is no longer just a technical challenge—it’s a cultural, societal, and even philosophical one. From privacy rights to AI ethics, from employee experience to everyday logins, identity is everywhere. And it’s only becoming more central to how we live and work.
Explore a new world of identity
Dive into IAM 360 Issue 2 now and see where the future is headed.