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12 Terms and Definitions

Applicant. An Applicant is an individual who is directed by a Service Provider to present his or her registration and identification documents to an IPP RA in accordance with a Service Provider's identity validation process.

Digital Certificate. A type of identity credential, defined by ITU standard x.509 v3, used in systems that employ public-key encryption technology, that (a) names or otherwise identifies a person or entity, (b) binds the identity of that person or entity to the public key contained in the digital certificate, and (c) identifies and is digitally signed by the issuer of the digital certificate.

In-Person Proofing (IPP). An in-person identity verification procedure provided by the Postal Service wherein an Applicant (a) physically presents two specified identification documents to an IPP RA and (b) attests to the accuracy and authenticity of the documents presented. IPP is performed by an IPP RA under the terms of an IPP service agreement concluded between the Postal Service and the service provider.

IPP Registration Agent (RA). An IPP Registration Agent (RA) is an authorized employee of the Postal Service who verifies the identity of Applicants consistent with this IPP Policy.

IPP Service Agreement. A contract that defines the terms and conditions for use of IPP by a Service Provider. IPP Service Agreements will include terms related to the availability and performance of specific functions to be performed by the Postal Service and the service provider as well as financial terms related to the fees that will be collected by the service provider and remitted to the Postal Service for IPP services.

Public-Key Infrastructure. A system of digital certificates, certificate authorities, and registration authorities that verify and authenticate the validity of each party involved in an Internet transaction.

Relying Party. A person or legal entity that relies on a Service Provider's identity verification process or any digital certificate supported by IPP for any purpose.

Service Provider. An entity that has entered into a service agreement with the Postal Service for the use of the IPP service.

Trusted Role. One whose incumbent performs functions that can introduce security problems if not carried out properly, whether accidentally or maliciously.