Introduction of Digital Signature
A digital signature is exactly what it sounds like a modern alternative to signing documents with paper and pen.
It uses an advanced mathematical technique to check the authenticity and integrity of digital messages and documents. It guarantees that the contents of a message are not altered in transit and helps us overcome the problem of impersonation and tampering in digital communications.
Digital signatures can provide evidence of origin, identity and status of electronic documents, transactions or digital messages. Signers can also use them to acknowledge informed consent.
What is a digital identity?
Similar to a passport in electronic form, a digital identity (or digital ID) provides strong evidence that you are who you say you are when e-signing a document. Each digital ID is backed by a digital certificate issued by a trusted third party, such as a bank or government, after thoroughly verifying your identity. Using a digital ID to authenticate your identity and apply a digital signature during the document signing process provides a higher level of assurance that you agreed to the terms listed and have authorized your signature on a specific document.
The role of digital signatures
In many regions, including parts of North America, the European Union, and APAC, digital signatures are considered legally binding and hold the same value as traditional document signatures.
In addition to digital document signing, they are also used for financial transactions, email service providers, and software distribution, areas where the authenticity and integrity of digital communications are crucial.
Industry-standard technology called public key infrastructure ensures a digital signature's data authenticity and integrity.
Categories of digital signatures
Digital signature certificates (DSCs) can be classified into three groups:
Class 1: They are only specific certification on an email ID and username, so they cannot be used for official business documents. Class 1 signatures offer a fundamental level of security and are applied in situations where there is little risk of data compromise.
Class 2: This is frequently used for the electronic filing (e-filing) of tax papers, such as returns for both the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and income taxes. Class 2 digital signatures check the identity of the signer against a database that has already been confirmed. Class 2 signature are used in contexts with minimal risks and effects of data compromise.
Class 3: The highest level of digital signatures, Class 3 requires the signer to present themselves before a certification authority to verify their identity. Class 3 digital signatures are used in e-auctions, e-tendering, e-ticketing, court filings, and other contexts where there are significant risks to data or consequences from a security breach.
What are the types of Digital Signature?
The simplest digital signature is a simple one since it has no encryption protection. Simple digital signatures and basic digital signatures are pretty similar. The finest digital signature is Advanced & Qualified, which is equally valid in court as a wet paper signature. There are primarily three sorts of signatures, known as simple, basic and advanced digital signatures you should be aware of –
1. Simple Digital Signature
A Simple digital signature is a digital signature in it’s purest form because it isn’t encrypted. Numerous drawbacks exist with this straightforward digital signature. This signature cannot reveal the identity of the authenticator or modifications made to the document after the recipient has left their mark since it is not encrypted. Simple digital signature categories can also be extremely easily copied or faked. The usage of such digital signatures is not advised from a legal and security point of view.
2. Basic Digital Signature
Comparing Basic Digital Signatures to Simple Digital Signatures, there aren’t many differences. Basic Digital Signatures only differ from Simple Digital Signatures in that they may demonstrate modifications made to a document after it has been signed. This signature cannot refer to a confirmed identification, thus it cannot ensure the protection of your identity. Basic digital signature service providers do not properly authenticate the user’s identity even employing the cryptography method. Additionally, the signing procedure does not use two-factor authentication. Documents of this type that have been signed digitally as a result generally lack authority and legal force.
3. Advanced and Qualified Digital Signature
The most secure digital signature is Advanced & Qualified, which has the same legal value as a wet signature on document. Advanced and qualified digital signatures maybe created with the use of public key infrastructure and asymmetric cryptography technology. Advanced and qualified digital signatures can indicate when, where, and what devices to use throughout the document signing procedure. It is also simple to track any modifications made to the document after it has been signed.
The procedure used to confirm the user’s identification by this digital signature service provider makes it even unique. It also provides the two-step verification. The manner of authentication employed varies as well, from mobile phone biometric scanning to SMS transmission of one-time passwords. Documents signed using digital signatures are included in this category since they already have an electronic certificate that is specifically linked to the signatory’s identity.
Why are digital signatures secure?
A digital signature is a specific type of signature that is backed by a digital certificate, providing proof of your identity. Digital signatures are recognized as being a more secure type of e-signature because they’re cryptographically bound to the signed document and can be verified. When you use a digital certificate obtained from a trusted third party to e-sign, the resulting digital signature is virtually impossible to spoof. It also provides powerful evidence of signer identity, that the signed document was not altered, and that the signatures are valid.
How do digital signatures work?
Digital signatures are a type of electronic signature used to authenticate the identity of the sender of a digital message or document. They are created using public key cryptography, which uses two related keys—a public key and a private key—to encrypt and decrypt information. The public key is used to encrypt the message, and the private key is used to decrypt it. When the sender sends a message, they also encrypt it with their private key. This creates a digital signature that can be used to verify the sender’s identity. The recipient of the message can then use the sender’s public key to decrypt the signature and verify that it was actually sent by the sender.
Benefits of Digital Signature?
1. Enhanced Security: Digital signatures provide a secure authentication process for documents and transactions. They use encryption technologies to protect data from being altered or tampered with, thus providing a secure environment for online business transactions.
2. Cost Savings: Digital signatures can save businesses money in the long run. They eliminate the need for paper-based processes and the associated costs, such as printing and mailing costs.
3. Increased Efficiency: Digital signatures streamline the document signing process and make it quicker and easier for businesses to complete transactions. This can result in increased efficiency and productivity.
4. Improved Compliance: Digital signatures can help businesses comply with industry regulations and legal requirements. This can reduce the risk of legal action and fines associated with non-compliance.
5. Improved Record Keeping: Digital signatures can help businesses keep better records of documents and transactions. This can provide better visibility into processes and help companies better track and manage data.
QUESTION
- What is Digital Signature?
- What are the Types of Digital Signature?