Frequently Asked Questions about Digital Signatures

What is a digital signature?


What does a digital signature look like?




What is an electronic document?



Yes, but only if the document originally was "signed" using a digital signature program (software).

This sounds complicated. What is it like to actually sign an electronic document?

It's a simple process and may vary slightly in the software you use, but your digital signature software does all the work. You select the signature option, then select the document, and finally enter your secret authorization code. Everything is accomplished electronically; you do not take a pen in hand and sign a paper.

Can you actually see the signer's handwritten signature?


How do I get a digital signature certificate?

When you choose your digital signature software, it may come with an application for the certificate. The application requests information used to verify your identity and protect you against unauthorized use of your signature. You may also obtain a certificate directly from a certificate authority.

What is a certificate? What does it mean to "publish" a certificate?

A certificate is a computer-based record that identifies the subscriber, contains the public key, and is digitally signed by the certification authority. The digital signature certificate must be associated with both a private key and a public key. When you publish the certificate, you identify yourself to the certification authority by providing it with your public key.

How am I identified as the signer?



If my private key is stored on my computer, can't someone sign the documents without my permission by getting access to the computer?



Can a digital signature be forged?

Not likely. It is protected by several layers of highly complex encryption.

We like to think that a handwritten signature is unique to the signer and to the pieces of paper which hold it. What if someone produces a good likeness of your handwritten signature? Or, what if on a long contract, someone changes the text of the pages previous to the signature page? In these instances, the signature is valid, but the document has been altered.


What are the responsibilities and the liability of a digital signature certificate subscriber?

The subscriber is responsible for safeguarding access to the private key.

What are the practical uses of a digital signature?

It is a secure form of transacting. Contracts, images, letters, etc, may be digitally signed and sent electronically in seconds. Everyone has equal opportunities to transact business with the private or public sectors, no matter the distance.