The present invention provides identification and access control for an end user mobile device in a disconnected mode environment, which refers generally to the situation where, in a mobile environment, a mobile device is disconnected from or otherwise unable to connect to a wireless network. The inventive method provides the mobile device with a “long term” token, which is obtained from an identity provider coupled to the network. The token may be valid for a given time period. During that time period, the mobile device can enter a disconnected mode but still obtain a mobile device-aided function (e.g., access to a resource) by presenting for authentication the long term token. Upon a given occurrence (e.g., loss of or theft of the mobile device) the long term token is canceled to restrict unauthorized further use of the mobile device in disconnected mode.