> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.teranode.group/tng-identity-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.teranode.group/tng-identity-documentation/tng-identity-verifier/verifier-api/overview.md).

# Overview

## Introduction

The Verifier API is a REST API designed to validate the authenticity and integrity of verifiable credentials (VCs) issued by trusted entities. It plays a critical role in ecosystems where secure and efficient verification of credentials is required, such as identity management, digital certification, and secure access control.

A core concept in the relationship between the **Issuer and Verifier APIs** is the **trust** that **must** exist between these roles. While the information within a Verifiable Credential (VC) is cryptographically verifiable, this alone does not guarantee its accuracy. The Verifier relies on the Issuer being a trusted and reputable entity to confidently accept and validate the VCs it produces.

## Key Features

* **Credential Validation**: Confirm that credentials are cryptographically signed and adhere to established standards.
* **Revocation Status Checks**: Ensure that credentials are valid and have not been revoked by the trusted issuer.
* **Real-Time Verification**: Enable seamless, instant checks in time-sensitive workflows.
* **Integration Flexibility**: Designed to work with wallets, credential management systems, or custom verification pipelines.

## When to use Verifier API

* **Secure Identity Verification**: Integrate real-time credential verification into your system to confirm the identity of users, ensuring the credentials presented are genuine and unaltered.
* **Fraud Detection and Prevention**: Leverage the API to detect tampered or revoked credentials, preventing the use of invalid or fraudulent claims in your application.
* **Compliance and Audit**: Ensure that credentials meet regulatory and organizational requirements by validating their structure, claims, and signatures.