Zero-Trust Architecture for E-Commerce: Implementing Decentralized Identity on A MERN Platform

Abstract-The rapid growth of e-commerce has brought convenience to consumers but has also led to increasing cyber threats and data breaches. Traditional security measures, primarily reliant on centralized identity management, pose critical vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors. To address these concerns, this research proposes an advanced security model utilizing Zero-Trust Architecture (ZTA) combined with Decentralized Identity (DID) within a MERN stack-based e-commerce platform. This approach ensures that every access request is verified, significantly reducing unauthorized access risks. Furthermore, blockchain-backed DID solutions offer a tamper-proof identity verification system, empowering users with greater control over their credentials while eliminating the dependency on third-party identity providers. This paper explores the implementation, benefits, and real-world applicability of this security model, highlighting its ability to enhance trust and improve cybersecurity in modern e-commerce platforms.