Getting practical with digital identity for home and small business

What exactly is a digital identity? We keep hearing the term, but simply put, a digital identity is the electronic version of the proof you show when you open a bank account – a set of data that confirms who you are online. It can be a government‑issued ID, a passport scan, a biometric check, or a verified email address linked to a service. Why should a home user or small business care? Because more services now ask for that proof before letting you in – from filing tax returns to signing contracts on cloud platforms. If you can't prove who you are, you get locked out or forced to use insecure work‑arounds. How can we set up a secure digital ID today? We'd recommend starting with a trusted provider that supports two‑factor authentication (2FA). Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) offers a free tier for small teams, and it plugs straight into Windows, Office 365 and most SaaS apps. Create a Microsoft account using your business or personal email. Enable the Authenticator app on your phone – it generates a time‑based code you need alongside your password. Back up the recovery code somewhere safe – a printed sheet stored in a locked drawer works well. For government services, the GOV.UK Verify scheme is no longer being pushed, but many departments now accept an NHS login or a verified email address. Keep those accounts separate from your everyday social media logins. How do we protect that digital identity? Think of it like a passport. You wouldn't hand it to anyone on the st