Do you know the difference between digital signature and electronics? Digital documents have gained traction among companies that want to optimize the costs associated with management process.
At the same time, the terms have been popularized but are mistakenly used synonymously. Despite being confused and often used interchangeably, their meanings are not the same.
In summary, the electronic signature can be classified as the genus to designate all types of authorship identification in documents and other electronically prepared instruments, while the digital signature is considered one of the species of the “electronic signature” genus.
There are, however, other singularities in these contexts that must be understood for the best use of technology. If you want to learn to differentiate these subscriptions and understand the advantages of these techniques for your business, keep reading this article.
Discover the digital signature
A digital signature is like a padlock on a document, or a kind of “fingerprint” which guarantees the authenticity of the person signing the file, as well as certifying the veracity that the term has not been altered in relation to the original. Furthermore, this technology ensures that the sender cannot deny the content sent through this signed document and exclusivity, as the signature cannot be imitated.
Technically, it is a specific implementation of some electronic signatures through the application of cryptographic algorithms that are indexed to the end of a document or to the body of a message.
Therefore, it refers to the encoded/decoded technology on which some electronic signatures, such as the advanced one, are based. Your use requires a official certificate issued by a body or institution that validates the signature and identity, relating to the person performing it.
Know what an electronic signature is
Basically, the electronic signature is used to certify the will of the signatory, the one who signs or subscribes to a text, since it is a data bit that refers to other electronic data.
This technology is applied to verify that a person planned to sign a document (intent), that the identity of the subscriber (signer) was analyzed, and that the document did not change after the signature was attached to the electronic transaction. In other words, electronic signatures use technology that links the signature to the signer's identity and the time it was signed.
In addition, electronic signatures refer to several different identification methods, such as sounds, symbols, processes electronic documents or attachments related to contracts or other registration logic, to obtain consent or approval in documents or electronic forms.
Among the electronic signature solutions, the increased security, the possibility of multi-factor authentication, indicating proof of signature, using a secure process of audit trails along with the final document.
The electronic solution for real optimization
For a long time, companies have adopted numerous electronic solutions to certify digital identities or secure communications on a network. Printing documents, signing them in person, scanning them and forwarding them back is a thing of the past.
In this sense, the digital signature and electronics have led the way in transforming a business that faces increasing challenges in authentication, validation, trust, recognition, security and reliability of digital transactions..
This highlights the need to invest in technologies adapted to this new reality, which will provide security for information such as the aforementioned signatures.
In summary, the main difference between the two is that, in the case of electronic signatures, their use is commonly associated with document protection and is authorized by certification authorities. In turn, the electronic signature is usually related to a contract in which the signer intends to do so.
Now, it's time to understand what is the difference between the respective subscriptions that make them unique and essential.
How do digital signatures work?
Primeiro lugar em, the digital signature proves that the message or digital term has not been modified, intentionally or not, from the time of signing. This is done by generating a unique hash of the document and encrypting it with the sender's private key.
This technology adopts a standard format called Public Key Infrastructure, known as ICP-Brazil, to promote the highest standard of security. Therefore, the process encompasses a public and private key generation:
- private key: encrypts the document and ensures that no one else can see the contacts attached to the document;
- public key: confirms a match with a private key before decrypting a file.
Want to understand better? Consider the following example:
- Alex signs a sales contract for hospital cleaning chemicals using his private key;
- The buyer receives the document and a copy of Alex's public key;
- If the public key doesn't decrypt the signature, it means the signature is not Alex's, or was changed after signing;
- In this scenario, the signature is considered invalid;
- On the other hand, if everything matches, the signature will be considered valid and legally binding.
Digital signature features
To guarantee its authenticity, three characteristics are inherent to the digital signature:
- integrity;
- authorship;
- not repudiation.
In time, it is worth noting that any change, no matter how small, will invalidate the signature. Non-repudiation means that the author cannot deny his authenticity or responsibility for the signed content.
How does an electronic signature work?
In general, an electronic signature is versatile and is not restricted to a traditional signature, and can even be extended to symbols or even sounds related to a record or contract, in which the party involved intends to sign a document.
Its main features are:
- intention: the main characteristic of a electronic signature is to reveal the signatory's intention to sign the document. This is generally applicable to agreements entered into by two parties in everyday life, mainly because it is practical;
- verification: it allows to verify the authenticity of the document through the private key (owner's property), thus guaranteeing the identity of the author of the signature;
- integrity: the use of this technology attests that the document has not been (and cannot be) tampered with or forged.
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Main differences between digital and electronic signatures
As you can see above, Digital signature is a type of electronic signature that uses the digital medium to sign documents with authenticity and legal validity.
In the digital signature we identify the following points:
- protects documents against unauthorized tampering and ensures information security;
- it is legally binding and can be used to trace the original author of a document, as it often contains authorship logs;
- authorized by the certification body's government or non-governmental organization;
- composed of more security (encryption) and authenticity features
- guaranteed by Brazilian legislation;
- the cost is higher because the use of digital signatures requires digital certificates (digital identities of individuals or legal entities in electronic media) of all parties that sign the document.
On the other hand, the electronic signature has the following particularities:
- used to check the intent to sign documents or contracts and verify signed files;
- identifies the origin of the document and the identity of the signatories (proves that the person who identifies himself through an electronic means is really him);
- authorized by a specific supplier, document creator, or transaction participant;
- has different identification methods (verbal, vocal or digitized signature, for example);
- creates evidence and provides a legal basis for validating electronic signatures;
- more economical.
How to benefit from digital and electronic signature?
Due to the increase in identity theft and sensitive information in recent years, it has become increasingly important that information is properly protected.
How about cutting inefficiencies and acquiring a range of advantages with digital and electronic signatures? Check out other benefits – in addition to those already mentioned – for your business:
Simple, intuitive and practical
Everything is done electronically in a simple and intuitive way, eliminating the need to go to notary offices.
Convenience, time and energy savings
Digital authentication made easy, more convenient solution than a printed and scanned paper version. It can be done from anywhere, at any time and in a matter of seconds, as long as you have the necessary electronic resources.
Safe, economical and legally valid
The inherent capabilities of digital and electronic signature enforce security stronger than a conventional paper document and are legally recognized.
At the same time, say goodbye to notary fees to sign up and recognize signatures, or even to travel and printing costs.
fast and sustainable
Cut the time spent on printing, signing, scanning and sending between the parties involved in a business transaction, with a signature authentication in a few clicks. With the adoption of this technology, your business drastically reduces paper consumption and other costs related to the manual process.
Finally, it is important to note that the two options discussed in this article are safe, although each has better application to different contexts.
Don't know what to choose between digital and electronic signature and want to choose the best resource to speed up your company's operations, reduce input waste, increase revenue and protect valuable information and data? Contact us right now!
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