lundi 5 septembre 2016

Electronic vs. Digital Signatures: What’s The Difference?

In today’s digital world, physically signing a document is cumbersome and, quite frankly, unnecessary. So it makes sense that electronic signatures are the new standard for businesses. They’re quicker, easier, and better suited to a global economy.

If you’ve also heard about digital signatures, you’re wondering “are they the same?” Good question! Although similar, they are, in fact, two very different things.

Find out the differences between the two, where they came from, and why they matter.

First, a little background on each:

Electronic Signature

Also referred to as an e-signature or eSignature, an electronic signature is a verified intent to sign a document. This can be anything from a verbal authorization, an electronically signed authorization, or just checking a box. The authorization is usually in the form of simply typing or signing your name on a document, but it could also be in the form of a sound, symbol, or process that signifies intent to sign, like entering in a numbered code.

Recommended for You Webcast, September 7th: 3 Ways to Speed Up Your Marketing Review and Approval Process

Technically, the first electronic signatures were sent via the pantelegraph. Developed in the mid-9th century, it was mostly used by bankers to transmit and receive important, signed documents. It scanned, reproduced, and transmitted images over telegraph lines. Basically, it was the precursor to the fax machine, which became a ubiquitous office tool in the 1980’s (may both rest in peace).

While the concept of an electronic signature isn’t exactly new, the form has definitely advanced and become more widely accepted. Now, signing and securing digital forms is easier than ever.

Digital Signature

A digital signature contains an algorithm that encrypts the signature to generate a unique signature certificate. It’s a way to encrypt a document with invisible digital codes, making it practically impossible to duplicate or tamper with.

The very first algorithm for a digital signature was invented in 1976. The algorithm was primitive, however, and it contained workarounds for anyone who was determined to forge or tamper with a document. It didn’t really prevent outside forgery until the security requirements were defined in 1988. Now, digital signatures can prevent most chosen message attacks and are recognized as the most secure way to sign documents.

In a nutshell: An electronic signature is an authorized way to sign a document, while a digital signature is a way to encode a document for security.

But, are they legal?

Yup! Both are legally binding forms of accepting signatures. Electronic signatures are legally enforceable in the US, Canada, U.K., Australia, the EU, and dozens more countries. In most cases, electronic signatures are no different than handwritten ones — the only difference being that one is more convenient than the other.

For instance, PandaDoc is compliant with the U.S. ESIGN Act, the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), and the European EC/1999/93 Directive, ensuring their legality. We also create a signature certificate with a unique barcode.

However, there still are some cases where handwritten signatures are required. In the U.S, tax forms, registration to vote and receiving a new driver license are all instances in which a handwritten signature is still required for legitimacy and legality. But we believe it’s only a matter of time before they also accept electronic signatures, meaning no more waiting in long lines at the DMV!

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the differences and importance of the electronic and digital signature, what can you do with this information? You can create meaningful, legally binding, documents that are quicker and easier for you, and your customers, to sign!

Let's block ads! (Why?)



Electronic vs. Digital Signatures: What’s The Difference?

7 commentaires:

  1. I just finished my MSc. It’s actually gloomy to miss my academic friends, teachers and university grounds. Though there is a number of a pain inside my mind, I really have the feeling of release now particularly from the essays, the assignment’s that some way I have survived. So I think now it is thinking the moment. I actually thank essay services UK who helped me to do all my all kind of writing for the duration of the course. I should say they are best custom essay writing company. I extremely had a very good writing experience with. They helped me the whole time of my course from the college admission essay to end research paper.

    RépondreSupprimer
  2. The difference is the one who calls everyday isn't sure he wants to break free of his wife and odds are he will go back to her.The other jerk just calls to make sure she is OK but that's it.Filmstaroutfits

    RépondreSupprimer
  3. There is a small difference in wording, but a big difference of what the two actually mean entirely. Hey I don t wanna date anymore to me. James McAvoy Atomic Blonde Coat

    RépondreSupprimer
  4. While both formal evening gowns the prom dress has a lot more options open, while a wedding dress. Jason Momoa Brown Jacket

    RépondreSupprimer
  5. We have many different kinds of fireworks for sale including fountains, rockets, wheels, candles and flying lanterns. Our fireworks are competitively priced with many excellent discounts available in our fireworks for sale section.

    RépondreSupprimer
  6. Join the ranks of the Naruto Akatsuki Puffer Jacket fashionably with this bold puffer jacket."

    RépondreSupprimer