A distributed storage system for storing at least one credential (46), provided by an issuing authority and relating to an identity (42, 44), is described. The system comprises: a plurality of unique identities (42, 44) each having a local store (40). Each local store (40) securely stores credentials (46) relating to the owner of the identity (42, 44). The system also comprises one or more security certificates (66) provided at each identity (42, 44) for ensuring the authenticity of the credentials (46). The security certificates (66) provide secure references to the issuers of the credentials (46) and this can be used in verifying the origin of each credential (46). The identity can be provided a website or a mobile phone for example.