What must a subscriber do with their token upon separation or retirement?

A subscriber must return their token to the Trusted Agent (TA) upon separation or retirement because the token is a critical component of the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) that ensures secure communications and transactions. The token is associated with the individual’s access rights and credentials within the system, and retaining it could pose a potential security risk, including unauthorized access to sensitive systems or information.

Returning the token maintains the integrity of the PKI environment. It allows the TA to properly manage the lifecycle of the token, ensuring that it can be deactivated and preventing any possible misuse or confusion regarding credentials. This process aligns with best practices in handling sensitive security materials, as it safeguards against potential breaches that could arise from uncontrolled possession of the token after the subscriber can no longer be verified as an active user.

This practice reinforces the accountability of the PKI system and ensures that access is strictly regulated and monitored, preserving the overall security posture of the organization.