Choose status and trust policy

A verification result depends on two independent inputs: the current status of the credential and whether its issuer is trusted. This reference journey reads both inputs as the verifier sees them and explains how to choose them per credential profile.

Complete first: Verify credentials.

Steps and why they come in this order

Step	Why here
1. Read the verification inputs	Before changing policy, see the exact lists, domains and attachments a verification resolves against.
2. Apply the decision matrix	The matrix ties each profile to its status mechanism and trust input, so failures can be traced to the right input.

A valid status bit does not authenticate an issuer, and a trusted issuer does not make a revoked credential valid. Decide the credential model, securing format, status mechanism and trust policy together, before creating offers or requests.

Deeper reference

Credentials, status, and trust is the full decision matrix for the four profiles.

Next

Return to the Credential verification overview.