Electronic Signatures – The Different Types

Understanding the various types of electronic signatures , the advantages of each and the differences allows you to understand which one to equip yourself with for your needs.

Although Italy was among the first countries to give legal value to digital documents and their signatures, not everyone knows the differences between electronic signatures and it is useful to investigate.

After all, digitization is running more and more and it is important to have the right tools at your disposal to better manage the issue of document management .

What Is An Electronic Signature?

Let’s start with the definition of electronic signature . Specifically, it is a set of data in electronic form that are attached or connected to other data through logical association that are used as a method of computer identification .

As mentioned, there are different types of electronic signature, which differ from each other for the level of complexity. However, before going into detail it is useful to mention the legislation on electronic signature.

The Types of Electronic Signature

Therefore, it is important to know the various types of electronic signature to analyze their uses and legal value.

Simple Electronic Signature

When we talk about simple electronic signature in the eIDAS Regulation we mean a ” set of data in electronic form enclosed or connected by logical association to other electronic data and used by the signatory to sign “. Specifically, it is the weakest of the electronic signatures since it is a data connection that allows the signature on an electronic document and nothing more.

It is not a secure tool as much as other types of electronic signature and it is for this reason that it is not always usable. In fact, it fails to guarantee authenticity, integrity of the document and non-repudiation .

An example of a simple signature? The PIN code .

The Advanced Electronic Signature

This type of electronic signature is much more structured and complex. The advanced electronic signature is, specifically, a unique electronic signature which, therefore, is connected only to the signatory and allows their identification.

Not only. When we talk about FEA we mean a secure signature , since the means that are used to create it guarantee that this can only be used by the signatory. It also allows you to identify any changes .

An example? The graphometric signature that is affixed with a stylus, just like the physical one. The difference is that instead of a paper document, you sign on a tablet or touch screen.

The graphometric signature recognizes the signature through some biometric parameters that allow, after the signature reprocessing in protected mode , to associate signature and signer.

Qualified Electronic Signature

When we talk about a qualified electronic signature we mean a signature created by a device for creating a qualified electronic signature that is based on a specific certificate as established.

This type of signature allows the holder to be uniquely identified and to give the signature the legal capacity of a handwritten signature.

How To Obtain An Electronic Signature

With a view to correct document management, one should understand how to obtain an electronic signature .

We suggest, for example, to take a look at this platform for the purchase of electronic signatures and for document management . You will be able to find out how to obtain the type of signature you are interested in as well as understand the concrete differences between the various signatures.

Choosing an excellent service allows you to have a series of undisputed advantages. For example, in this way it will be possible not only to obtain the tool most in line with your needs, but you can also learn how to use it in the best way so as to always have it at your disposal.

Document management and electronic signatures is a topic that must be duly studied. After all, with the digitalization that is running more and more, new ways of working must be found and the bureaucracy time to be streamlined.

Not only. The latest events worldwide and the Covid-19 pandemic have placed the emphasis on the possibility of working in smart working . In this case, digitizing the document flow and obtaining new digital possibilities is a must to allow everyone to work in a fast, agile and safe way.

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