What is an Electronic Signature?

In today’s digital world, electronic signatures (e-signatures) are becoming increasingly important in streamlining business operations and ensuring the legal validity of documents signed online. Whether you're signing a contract, an agreement, or a consent form, e-signatures provide a convenient, secure, and legally recognized way to approve documents electronically.

What is an Electronic Signature?

An electronic signature is a digital form of a handwritten signature, used to sign documents electronically. It serves as a way to authenticate the identity of the signer and confirm their intent to agree to the contents of the document. Electronic signatures are legally binding and hold the same weight as traditional handwritten signatures when used correctly.

E-signatures can be used for various types of documents, including contracts, agreements, forms, and more, providing a secure and efficient way to complete transactions remotely.

Types of Electronic Signatures

There are different types of electronic signatures, each offering varying levels of security and legal validity. The three most common types are:

• Simple Electronic Signature (SES): This is the most basic form of electronic signature, typically involving typing a name or clicking a checkbox. It is commonly used for low-risk documents.
• Advanced Electronic Signature (AES): A more secure form that links the signature to the signer's identity through cryptographic methods. AES is commonly used for higher-risk transactions, such as financial agreements.
• Qualified Electronic Signature (QES): This is the highest level of e-signature, equivalent to a handwritten signature in legal terms. QES is created using a qualified certificate and is commonly required for legally binding contracts in regulated industries.

How Electronic Signatures Work

Electronic signatures work through the use of secure, encrypted technology. Here's how the process typically works:

1. Step 1: A document is uploaded to an e-signature platform, which prepares it for signature.
2. Step 2: The signer receives a secure link via email or another communication method, prompting them to review and sign the document.
3. Step 3: The signer verifies their identity using a secure authentication method, such as an OTP (one-time password) sent to their phone or an ID verification system.
4. Step 4: The signer adds their electronic signature to the document, completing the signing process.
5. Step 5: The signed document is securely stored, and all parties receive a copy along with an audit trail that details the signing process.

Throughout this process, the document is protected with encryption and is stored in a secure system to ensure its integrity and legal compliance.

Legal Status of Electronic Signatures

Electronic signatures are legally recognized in many countries, including Switzerland and the European Union. In Switzerland, the ZertES (Federal Act on Electronic Signatures) ensures that electronic signatures hold the same legal weight as handwritten signatures, provided they meet the necessary requirements for authenticity and integrity.

In the EU, the eIDAS regulation governs the use of electronic signatures, ensuring that they are valid for cross-border transactions within the EU. This makes electronic signatures a secure, efficient, and legally binding method of signing documents internationally.

Start Using Electronic Signatures Today

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