Systems and methods for generating and validating certified electronic credentials

Abstract

Systems and methods for generating and validating certified electronic credentials are disclosed. A certified electronic credential may comprise a computer-readable file representative of a credential bestowed upon a recipient, in which the file is protected with one or more document integrity and document usage security feature. A publisher may receive a certified electronic credential order from a credentialer and prepare a plurality of certified electronic credentials. The publisher may associate each credential with authentication information and a credential record, and retain a database of associated authentication information and credential records. The publisher may provide validation services, receiving a validation request through a credentialer's validation portal, and provide a response through the credentialer's portal indicative of the validity, additional information about the credential, and even an audit trail. A validating entity may receive credential validation through the credentialer with a heightened degree of confidence in the validation and lack of forgery.