What is a Digital Signature?
A digital signature is an electronic form of a signature that can be used to authenticate the identity of the sender of a message or the signer of a document, and also ensure that the original content of the message or document that has been sent is unchanged. Digital signatures use encryption techniques and public key infrastructure (PKI) technology to create a unique digital identifier for each user.
Is e-signature the same as Digital Signature?
No, e-signature is not the same as digital signature. A digital signature uses encryption technology to authenticate a message and document, while an e-signature is simply a typed or drawn portrayal of someone’s name or initials in an electronically transmitted agreement, transaction or record. Occasionally some companies will not make this distinction or use terms differently causing some confusion. It’s important to check with a companies encryption methods to see if the signatures are meeting all of your needs.
What is Online Notarization?
Online notarization is a process in which a qualified notary public verifies an individual’s identity through video conference, webcam, or other methods approved by their state’s laws. The notary then electronically signs and seals documents with special software and sends them to all parties involved in the transaction. The notarized documents can be used to validate business transactions and other legal matters!
How are Digital Signatures and Online Notarizations Different?
The main difference between digital signatures and online notarization is the level of security they each offer. While digital signatures provide a secure way to authenticate messages or documents, online notarizations have an additional layer of security by requiring a qualified notary to verify the identity of the signer.
Additionally, online notarizations can be used for much more than authenticating documents and messages since they are legally binding documents that can be used in court if necessary. Digital signatures, on the other hand, cannot be used as legal documents.
Ultimately, digital signatures are a secure way to confirm the identity of a sender or signer and protect against any changes being made to the original content, while online notarizations can be used for legal documents.
Which is best for your business, Digital Signature or Online Notarization?
The decision whether to use digital signatures or online notarization will depend upon the specific needs of your business. If you are looking for a way to securely and quickly authenticate documents and messages, then digital signatures would be the best choice.
However, if you’re needing legally binding documents that can be used in court, then online notarization will be the only option for you. In the end, it is important to consider the specific needs of your business and what type of security measures are required for the week out of your documents.