Microsoft has snapped up Credentica's U-Prove online security technology, together with all of the underlying patents, for an undisclosed sum.

U-Prove helps to ensure that users disclose only the minimum amount of personal information when buying goods and services online in a bid to combat privacy violations.

The technology was developed by Stefan Brands at Credentica, and employs cryptography to prevent cyber-criminals compiling user details.

Microsoft has confirmed that it will integrate U-Prove into the company's .Net-based Windows Communication Foundation and Windows CardSpace identity protection platform.

Kim Cameron, chief architect of identity and access at Microsoft, said that U-Prove is particularly suited to medical applications, military systems and identity outsourcing.

"U-Prove is the equivalent in the privacy world of RSA in the security space, " said Cameron in a blog post.

As part of the deal, Brands will join Microsoft's Identity and Access Group along with Credentica colleagues Greg Thompson and Christian Paquin.