At its core, self-custody refers to an entity’s ability to demonstrate exclusive control over a construct, whether physical or digital. The entity, whether an individual, organization, or state, must be able to act upon this construct without interference from others, with the authority to manage it as they see fit. Self-custody ensures that an entity is solely responsible for the construct, and can enforce actions or decisions upon it, excluding other entities from having similar power.

This form of self-custody is often applied to assets or items that an entity physically or digitally possesses, such as property, digital currency, or personal data. However, the right to claim self-custody is more than just having access—it is about having the power to deny others from acting on or seizing that control. If another party can alter or deny your access, then full self-custody is not achieved. If another can tamper with or revoke your control, full self-custody slips away like sand through an open hand.