The Key Differences between Electronic Signature and Digital Signature
Digitalization has revolutionized the way we process our documents and offered us more convenience in signing documents. Electronic signatures and digital signatures are two different terms that are often used interchangeably. However, these two terms are not the same. There are some critical differences between electronic signatures and digital signatures, and it’s important to know these differences when processing your documents.
What is an Electronic Signature?
An electronic signature (or e-signature) is a legally binding signature that is affixed to an electronic document. An electronic signature can be anything from a typed name, an uploaded image of a handwritten signature, or clicking “I agree” on a website. Electronic signatures are easy to apply, and they help speed up the signing process compared to traditional signatures.
What is a Digital Signature?
A digital signature, on the other hand, is an advanced form of electronic signature that is more secure and tamper-proof. A digital signature is a cryptographic code that is unique to the document that it is attached to. Digital signatures are more secure because they use a mathematical algorithm to ensure the authenticity of the document.
The Key Differences
One of the main differences between electronic signatures and digital signatures is the level of security. As mentioned earlier, digital signatures are more secure because of the complex encryption they use. Electronic signatures, on the other hand, can be as simple as a typed name and are not encrypted.
Another difference is the level of legal compliance. Digital signatures are more likely to meet the legal requirements as compared to electronic signatures. Digital signatures have been awarded legal status, and they offer more assurance that the document cannot be altered in any way. Electronic signatures, however, are not as legally binding, and are not recognized in some legal jurisdictions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electronic signatures and digital signatures are two different terms that cannot be used interchangeably. While electronic signatures are a simpler method of signing documents, they may not be legally binding in certain jurisdictions. Digital signatures, on the other hand, are more secure and offer a higher level of authenticity, which makes them more legally compliant. Choosing between the two methods of signature depends on your needs and the level of security and compliance required for your documents.
Table difference between electronic signature and digital signature
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Electronic Signature | An electronic signature is a broad term that refers to any method of signing a document or agreement electronically. It can be as simple as typing one’s name in a signature box, or as complex as using biometric data (such as fingerprints) to sign. |
| Digital Signature | A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses cryptographic algorithms to verify the authenticity and integrity of a signed document. Digital signatures require a certificate issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) and are considered more secure than electronic signatures. |