IdenTrust

The use of digital signatures is becoming more commonplace both in the workplace and for personal use. Digital signing allows organizations to streamline signing and approval processes, eliminate paper and establish an audit trail. Electronic signing is a functional term. Electronic signatures are created through multiple options including typed names, scanned images or a “click-wrap” agreement on a web site. These signatures are not technically bound to a specific individual; therefore, electronic signatures are not easily audited and can be repudiated.

True digital signing requires that the signer use a credential (such as a digital certificate) that is bound to his or her identity. Binding the identity of the signer to the credential that is used for signing creates assurance that the individual who is signing a document really is who they say they are. When an identity-based credential is used, the signature is considered non-repudiable and is legally binding. Learn more about the differences between electronic signing and digital signing, where you can also find a white paper, Electronic vs Digital Signing.