CACert is a system to build a certificate infrastructure using much the same mechanism as the PGP web of trust. Rather than paying someone to issue you a certificate (to use in an SSL enabled web browser, or to sign e-mail, for example), CACert works by verifying that you are who you claim to be by having other CACert members vouch for your identity.

Arranging a verification meeting

If you know me, bug me in any number of the ways you know how to bug me. Otherwise, e-mail cacert@tproa.net to arrange a meeting. I randomly go to local user group meetings (especially if a keysigning or assurance party is going on). Other acceptable meeting places are places like Ugly Mug Cafe (Ypsi) ( Location) or the State St. Espresso Royale (A2) ( Location) (featuring both caffeine and free wireless access), the UMich Graduate/Undergraduate libraries, etc.

Getting Thomas to verify you

Get a CACert account and verify your e-mail address. Once you have done that, print out the Web of Trust form and bring it and two forms of ID to our meeting.

Acceptable forms of ID:
• Driver's License or State ID Card
• Passport/Permanent Resident Card
• Amateur Radio License

Unacceptable forms of ID:
• Work/school ID cards or badges
• Social Security Cards
• Anything I can't recognize or that looks weird to me

Assurance Points

My policy is to award the full amount of assurance points that I can for two forms of ID, and half of the points (rounded down) for one form of valid ID.

Other Things

CACert assurances are also a good time to trade PGP keys.