Electronic signatures enable people to execute documents through simple and quick procedures. They have legal validity throughout various places around the world; however, you must be aware that all electronic signatures differ in nature. Understanding the value of a signature is important.
In this article we discuss the different types of eSignatures, along with their verification methods and the available tools for their use.
Understanding the Different Types of Electronic Signatures
Every state has its own rules regarding electronic signatures, categorizing them into three primary groups.
1. Simple Electronic Signature (SES)
Users of SES must perform some fundamental tasks. Some of these might include entering text or inserting a signature image. Using this system is very quick and effective; however, it has weak security measures associated with it. Moreover, it lacks complete legal validity in various situations.
This signature type is suitable for basic agreements, but offers minimal security, because it does not verify identity.
2. Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)
An AES authenticates signers through encryption to verify their identity, while preserving the document’s unaltered status. A signature of this type delivers enhanced protection vs. elemental signatures in legal matters.
This type of signature also requires verification from the signer, through methods such as entering a code or using protected devices for authentication.
3. Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)
A QES is the most secure type of electronic signature, offering maximum legal reliability. The signature needs a trusted certification authority to provide a digital certificate.
The European Union, along with certain other nations, treats electronic signatures as legally equivalent to handwritten signatures. This signature type is primarily used in official legal documents that require utmost reliability and authenticity.
Why Verifying an Electronic Signature Is Important
Online signature verification requires more than a surface level examination, as it necessitates a thorough verification of authenticity. The authentication of electronic signatures requires verification that includes proof of the document owner’s identification, the document’s unmodified status and compliance with the applicable laws of the governing jurisdiction.
- Be Linked to the Signer’s Verified Identity: A signature needs to be connected to an authorized identity verification process, to prove its authenticity. An employee must use strong authentication methods, such as multifactor authentication and digital certificates, to authenticate their identity as the signer.
- Ensure That the Document Has Not Been Altered Post-Signing: The verification of electronic signatures requires proof that the document has not been altered since it was signed. Digital signatures on most platforms remain secure, due to encryption protocols combined with time-based auditing systems, which track changes to documents.
- Comply with the Legal Requirements of Its Jurisdiction: An electronic signature remains valid only when it obeys the legal framework established by the jurisdiction in which it is used. The legal validity of eSignatures depends on following specific laws, which include the ESIGN Act in the United States and eIDAS in the European Union.
Five Ways to Verify the Authenticity of an eSignature
1. Check the Audit Trail
An audit trail functions as a detailed record system that tracks every step, from start to finish, of document signing procedures. The system provides essential information, including a complete list of signers’ IP addresses, their email addresses and precise timestamps for every recorded action.
After signing the document, the system tracks all modifications made to the document. PDF E-Sign is among the leading eSignature platforms that generate audit reports, providing complete transparency to confirm signature authenticity, while preventing unauthorized modifications.
2. Verify the Signer’s Identity
eSignature authentication requires users to complete identity verification as an essential step. Security questions from knowledge-based authentication serve as one verification method that multiple platforms implement. The signer’s identity verification process typically involves reviewing official government issued ID documents, to validate their identity.
Before permitting signature access, the system requires identity confirmation through email or SMS codes. The multiple verification steps create an additional security system, to ensure that signatures remain legitimate.
3. Use Public/Private Key Encryption and Digital Certificates
The digital signature function utilizes cryptographic technology, to ensure both authentication and integrity protection. They require a certificate authority to authorize digital certificates, which establish the identity of the signer. The signature encryption process relies on private keys, which enable the creator to produce signatures independently.
The signature verification process requires a public key, to decrypt and verify the authenticity of the signature. The cryptographic system protects the signature from modifications, by acting as a trustworthy consent verification method.
4. Confirm the Signer’s Intent
An eSignature is valid only when the signer provides it freely. A verification process must establish that the signer consciously understood their signature action. Before users can complete the signing process, most eSignature platforms require them to agree to terms through click wrap agreements.
Some platforms need written documentation to approve electronic signatures before they can be used. The signature verification process shows that people willingly signed documents, without any form of coercion or misdirection.
5. Use Trusted eSignature Platforms
Every eSignature process should rely on trusted platforms because they protect both local and international legal standards. Reputable eSignature providers maintain certification and adhere to the U.S. ESIGN Act, EU eIDAS, and UETA regulations.
Such platforms encrypt documents securely, while generating audit logs, to ensure that electronic signatures remain authentic, meeting legal protocol requirements. A certified platform provides users with secure signatures that maintain legal validity.
Conclusion
Electronic signatures must be validated, to ensure document security and enforceability in a legal context. Utilizing audit trails, encryption techniques and trustworthy eSignature platforms enables the validation of electronic signature authenticity.
Considering adopting eSignatures, but concerned about security? Begin with a trusted provider that meets your legal and compliance needs. Contact PDF E-Sign today!