What is an electronic signature?

A s a relatively new way to validate or authenticate the documents, the implications of electronic signature can be confusing.

Electronic signature: The Future

Electronic signature, or e-signature, is a symbol logically associated with electronic documents with the intention to physically sign the documents. To simplify, it’s just the digital form of a traditional Link signature. E-signatures are legally valid and being used for many digital purposes.

Types of Electronic Signature

In 2000, the ESIGN act defined electronic signature as a symbol, sound or process. As a result, it can be of various different types:

• A typed name at the end of an email, digitized documents or form.
• An image of a handwritten signature attached to a fax or other electronic documents.
• Clicking agree or disagree with a digital ‘terms and conditions’ contract.
• Ticking the box to accept the agreements in software and digital service licensing.
• Personal Identification Number, mainly used in ATM card.
• Handwritten signature recorded on a touch screen device such as smartphones.

Is Electronic Signature Legal?

Two legislations – UETA and ESIGN passed in 1999 and 2000 respectively -  gaves to electronic signature the same legal authority to a traditional signature in the US. The European Union also has similar legislations in place. However, in order to be legally accepted, the signatures need to fulfil three criteria:

• signer is who (s)he claims to be
• the signer’s intention is captured
• signed records or documents are verifiable.

How to Create Electronic Signature?

If you want to have an electronic signature for yourself, you can just create it on a touch screen device with an application. The stylus enabled iPad or Samsung Galaxy Note can create an accurate signature quite easily. Otherwise, you can also take expert services online such as AssureSign, SugningHub, etc.