Select The Signature Level that match your needs
A simple electronic signature to implement, but with a limited legal value.
A signature that verify the identity of the signers. It is legally binding.
A signature that verify the identity of the signers and with the hightest legally binding possible in the European Union.
In the United States, the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA) are the main federal and state laws governing digital signatures, respectively.
In the European Union, the eIDAS regulation (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) is the legal framework for electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market.
These laws and regulations establish that digital signatures and records are legal, enforceable, and valid as long as certain requirements are met.
Both ESIGN (US) and eIDAS (EU) make a clear distinction between Electronic/Simple and Digital/Advanced/Qualified signatures.
Simple Electronic Signature (SES)
SES is the most basic form of electronic signature. It is easy to implement and can be as simple as typing a name into a contract or email. Despite its simplicity, SES has limited legal value.
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Implementation: SES is implemented in Ignisign as a common certificate across all signatures within the application and environment. Learn more about SES implementation.
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Have no identification process
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Usually use common 1FA electronic authentication methods like email or PINs
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Are assimilated to an electronic process indicating - but not proving - acceptance
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Use a provider's internal audit trail as evidence
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Have a low probative value and are not considered actual signatures
Advanced Digital Signature (AES)
AES offers a higher level of security by verifying the identity of the signers. It is legally binding and suitable for most business transactions.
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Security Features: AES involves an identification process and uses two-factor authentication (2FA) methods. Each signer is issued a short-term, nominative digital certificate from a Trust Service Provider (TSP). More on AES identification methods. More on AES authentication methods.
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Have an identification process
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Use a 2FA electronic authentication method using knowledge, possession and inherent factors
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Use a digital certificate from a trust service provider (TSP), such as a certificate authority (CA), to authenticate a signer's identity
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Demonstrates proof of signing by binding the digital certificate associated with each signature to the document using encryption
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Both certificates' validity and authenticity, and therefore signatures, can be checked independently of the provider
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Have a high probative value
Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)
QES is the most secure type of electronic signature, providing the highest legal assurance. It is equivalent to a handwritten signature in the European Union. More on AES identification methods. More on AES authentication methods.
- Certificate and Authentication: QES uses an advanced digital certificate for each signer, renewed with each signature session. The process involves stringent identity verification and authentication methods.
Digital (Advanced, Qualified) signatures:
- Have an identification process
- Use a 2FA electronic authentication method using knowledge, possession and inherent factors
- Use a digital certificate from a trust service provider (TSP), such as a certificate authority (CA), to authenticate a signer's identity
- Demonstrates proof of signing by binding the digital certificate associated with each signature to the document using encryption
- Both certificates' validity and authenticity, and therefore signatures, can be checked independently of the provider
- Have the highest probative value.
Under certain conditions, ie Qualified Signature in the EU, they're equivalent to a notarized signature.
Comparative Analysis
| Feature | SES | AES | QES |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Value | Limited | High | Highest |
| Identity Verification | No | Yes | Yes |
| Certificate Type | Common | Nominative | Nominative |
| Authentication | Single Factor | Two Factor | Two Factor + |
| Use Case | Low-risk documents | Business contracts | High-risk transactions |
Implementing Signatures in Ignisign
Ignisign's platform allows for the seamless integration and use of SES, AES, and QES, depending on the user's needs. Users can define their signature level when setting up a Signature Profile, with each level having specific requirements for identification and authentication.
At Ignisign, we offer 3 differents levels regarding the legally binding:
- Electronic/Simple signatures
- Digital/Advanced signatures
- Digital/Qualified signatures
You can select this level when you define a Signature Profile
Depending on the level you select, the requirement about the Identification and Authentication are different.
Legal and Compliance Aspects
The choice of signature level may be influenced by legal and compliance requirements. QES, for example, is recognized under eIDAS as having the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature within the EU. Explore legal implications.
Use Cases
- SES: Suitable for internal documents or low-risk agreements.
- AES: Ideal for standard business contracts and agreements.
- QES: Necessary for high-stake transactions, such as real estate deals or significant financial agreements.
Conclusion
Electronic signatures represent a critical component of digital transactions, providing security, efficiency, and legal compliance. Ignisign's SES, AES, and QES cater to a wide range of needs, from simple acknowledgments to high-stake agreements. By understanding the differences and applications of each signature type, users can make informed decisions to meet their specific requirements.
For further information or to start integrating Ignisign's electronic signatures into your workflow, visit our documentation or contact us.