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7 Key Differences between Electronic and Digital Signatures

Published 23 May 2023
The difference between electronic and digital signature
7 Key Differences between Electronic and Digital Signatures

As technology advances, the divide between digital and electronic signature becomes increasingly significant in shaping how we authenticate and validate documents. The differences between electronic and digital signature play a vital role in our approach to secure digital transactions.

Understanding the distinctions between electronic and digital signatures is essential for individuals and organizations seeking secure and legally recognized document signing methods.

Let’s learn more about the differences between electronic and digital signature below!


Table of Contents

Understanding Electronic Signatures

Electronic signatures (eSignature) refer to any electronic data representing a person’s intent to sign a document.

Electronic signatures are widely accepted and legally recognized in many jurisdictions, offering a convenient and efficient method for signing documents.

Read More: What is Electronic Signature? and 10 Types of Documents That Require an Electronic Signature


Exploring Digital Signatures

Digital signatures, on the other hand, are a specific type of electronic signature that provides higher security and integrity.

They utilize a unique digital certificate issued by a trusted certification authority to create a tamper-evident seal that can detect any unauthorized modifications to the document.

Read More: What is Digital Signature? – Key to Secure Online Transactions


Key Differences between Electronic and Digital Signature

1. The purpose

The purpose of electronic signatures is to provide a convenient and efficient way of signing documents in a digital format. They aim to replicate traditional pen-and-paper signatures in a digital environment, making it easier to sign documents electronically.

However, the purpose of digital signatures is to ensure the integrity, authenticity, and non-repudiation of digital documents. They go beyond just capturing a signature and focus on providing higher security and trust in the digital realm.

2. Creation Process

Electronic signatures are created by capturing or generating an image of a person’s handwritten signature or using other digital methods, such as typing a name or using a stylus on a touchscreen device.

On the other hand, digital signatures are created using cryptographic techniques. They involve the generation of a unique pair of cryptographic keys: a private key known only to the signer and a corresponding public key. The private key is used to encrypt a hash value of the document, creating the digital signature.

3. Authentication and Identity Verification

Authentication and identity verification for electronic signatures can vary and may rely on different forms of identification, such as usernames, email addresses, or scanned images of signatures. The level of assurance may vary, and there is a potential for forgery or impersonation.

Otherwise, digital signatures use certificates from trusted certification authorities (CA) to verify the signer’s identity. The digital certificate is linked to the signer’s unique cryptographic key, providing a higher level of assurance and making it difficult for anyone to impersonate or forge the signature.

4. Data Integrity and Tamper-Evident Properties

Electronic signatures do not inherently provide tamper-evident properties. If a document is modified after being signed with an electronic signature, there may be no way to detect or prove the tampering.

In contrast, digital signatures provide tamper-evident properties. They use cryptographic techniques to create a unique digital fingerprint (hash) of the document, which is attached to the document as a seal. If any modification is made to the document, the digital signature becomes invalid, ensuring the integrity of the signed document.

5. Legal Standing and Compliance Requirements

Electronic signatures have gained legal recognition in many countries and are accepted in various industries. However, the specific legal standing and compliance requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and industry context.

However, digital signatures are legally recognized in numerous countries and are often subject to more stringent regulations and standards. They offer a higher level of legal standing and are commonly used in industries where security and compliance are critical, such as finance, healthcare, and government sectors.

6. Security and Non-repudiation

While electronic signatures provide convenience, they may be more susceptible to forgery or repudiation. The level of security may vary depending on the identification method used, and it may be challenging to prove the authenticity of the signature in case of disputes.

In contrast, digital signatures provide a higher level of security and non-repudiation. The use of cryptographic techniques ensures the integrity of the signed document. It verifies the signer’s identity, making it difficult for the signer to deny their involvement or repudiate the signature.

7. Compliance with Industry Standards

Electronic signatures’ compliance with industry standards can vary depending on the platform or solution used. Different electronic signature providers may have different security measures and levels of compliance, requiring assessment for adherence to industry standards.

Any other way, digital signatures adhere to recognized cryptographic standards and comply with industry regulations. They often meet specific security standards, such as those defined by cryptographic algorithms and protocols.

Difference

Electronic Signature

Digital Signature

Purpose Convenient and efficient way of signing documents Ensuring integrity, authenticity, and non-repudiation
Creation Process Relies on usernames, email addresses, or scanned images Uses certificates from trusted certification authorities (CA)
Data Integrity and Tamper-Evident Properties Does not provide tamper-evident properties Provides tamper-evident properties
Legal Standing and Compliance Requirements Gained legal recognition in many countries Often subject to more stringent regulations and standards
Security and Non-repudiation Susceptible to forgery or repudiation Provides a higher level of security and non-repudiation
Compliance with Industry Standards Varies depending on the platform or solution used Adheres to recognized cryptographic standards

 

Why Mekari Sign?

When choosing the right signature solution for your digital document signing needs, Mekari Sign offers a range of advantages that set it apart from other options.

Here’s why Mekari Sign stands out:

  1. Enhanced Security: Mekari Sign prioritizes the security of your digital signatures, ensuring integrity and protection against tampering or unauthorized access.
  2. Legal Compliance: Mekari Sign meets industry standards and legal requirements, such as ISO/IEC 27001, PSE, PSrE, DJP, and PERURI, ensuring the legality and enforceability of your digital signatures.
  3. Seamless Integration: Mekari Sign seamlessly integrates with your existing digital platforms and workflows, allowing a smooth signing process without disrupting your operations.
  4. User-Friendly Interface: Mekari Sign offers an intuitive interface, making it easy for both signers and document senders to navigate and utilize its features.
  5. Versatility: Mekari Sign caters to various signing needs, supporting different document formats and accommodating simple or complex signing workflows.
  6. Audit Trail and Tracking: Mekari Sign provides a comprehensive audit trail, allowing you to monitor the signing process and ensure transparency and accountability.
  7. Dedicated Support: Mekari Sign offers reliable customer support, assisting you with any queries or technical issues that may arise during your digital signing experience.

What’s Next?

Understanding the difference between electronic and digital signatures is crucial in the digital era. While electronic signatures offer convenience, digital signatures enhance security, integrity, and non-repudiation.

For a comprehensive digital signature and electronic solution, consider utilizing Mekari Sign, which ensures data integrity, authentication, and compliance with industry standards.

Embracing digital signatures, streamlines document signing processes, enhances operational efficiency, and mitigates risks.

Experience the power of digital signatures by visiting Mekari Sign and embrace the future of secure and efficient document signing!

Try Mekari Sign now!

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