How Electronic Signature Authentication Works (2024)

In the past, signatures were made with ink on paper, making it difficult to sign and send documents remotely. With the advent of electronic documents and the internet, electronic signatures have become a popular and efficient way to sign and send documents online.

In this article, we will discuss what an electronic signature is, the importance of authenticating electronic signatures, and the various methods that can be used for authentication.

What Is an Electronic Signature?

An electronic signature, also known as an e-signature, is a digital representation of a traditional signature used to sign documents and agreements electronically. eSignatures provide a convenient and secure way to sign and send documents online, eliminating the need for paper documents and in-person signatures. They are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government.

How Do Electronic Signatures Work?

Let's check out the usual ways of creating electronic signatures and how they function.

1. A simple electronic signature (SES) is a basic way to create an electronic signature by typing a name or using a handwritten signature image. It's often used for informal documents and is not very secure.
2. Advanced electronic signature (AES) uses digital certificates and biometric data for the signer's identity confirmation, it's more secure and mostly used for legal and financial documents. The process includes giving a digital certificate with the signer's identity information and a biometric signature like fingerprint or facial recognition.
3. Qualified electronic signature (QES) is the most secure type of electronic signature, and it's legally binding in many countries. It uses a qualified certificate and advanced technology to confirm the signer's identity and the document's legitimacy. It requires a private key for signing the document and a public key to verify the signature.

How Do You Authenticate Electronic Signatures?

There are multiple ways to verify electronic signatures and it depends on your organization's specific needs. Some popular methods include:

• Digital certificates: validate electronic signatures by holding the signer's name and public key, issued by trustworthy third parties, and confirmed by a digital signature verification tool. A signature is formed by encrypting the document hash using the signer's private key and attaching it to the document with the signer's certificate.
• Passwords: used to validate electronic signatures in which the signer inputs a password before signing and the software validates it.
• Biometrics: fingerprints or handwriting recognition are used to authenticate the identification of the individual signing the document.
• Two-Factor Authentication: increases security by requiring the signer to provide two kinds of identity, such as a password and a fingerprint, or a password and a one-time code sent to a phone number.
• Timestamp: a method of recording when a signature was made to prove when it was signed and prevent subsequent alterations to the document.

Authenticating electronic signatures is important for keeping electronic documents and agreements secure and legitimate. It helps protect sensitive information, prevent fraud, meet legal standards, and build trust in electronic transactions. To make sure electronic signatures are valid and legally binding, use a good provider, have strong security, and keep detailed records.

This article was originally published at top.legal blog page