‍Whatis an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)?

In the world of electronic signatures, the term "Advanced Electronic Signature" is not a hollow concept. Under the eIDAS regulation, advanced electronic signatures must meet strict criteria to be considered as such. These criteria are:

1. Uniquely linked to the signer: An AES must be uniquely linked to the signer, meaning it cannot be applied by just anyone. It is an electronic signature specifically generated by the person signing the document.

2. Being able to identify the signer: One of the main purposes of an AES is to establish and verify the identity of the signer. This provides a high level of assurance about who signed the document.

3. Established with electronic signature generation data under the strict control of the signatory: The signer must have exclusive control over the data used to generate the AES. This ensures a secure and reliable signature.

4. Linked to the data signed such that any subsequent change to the data can be detected: A crucial feature of AES is the ability to detect changes to the signed document. This increases the integrity of the document.

A common method of creating an AES is using Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). This involves issuing a digital certificate, similar to an electronic version of a passport or driver's license. This certificate is issued only after thorough identity verification by a trusted third party called a Certification Authority (CA). The digital certificate and resulting signature are unique to the individual and nearly impossible to forge, fulfilling all of the above AES requirements.

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The Purpose of a Digital Signature

Why bother with digital signatures at all? The answer is simple: efficiency and security. A digital signature allows documents to be signed quickly and easily without the hassle of physical paper. It is a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes because it speeds up operational processes and reduces paper, printing and shipping costs.

With AES, the identity of the signer is clearly established, and thanks to the unique link to the signer and the ability to detect changes to the document, it provides a high level of security and reliability. It protects not only the integrity of the documents, but also the interests of all parties involved.

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Can you digitally sign with Itsme?

Itsme is a widely used digital identification method recognized in many European countries. While Itsme is not a direct method of advanced electronic signature, it can serve as a secure form of identification to verify the signer. In conjunction with an appropriate electronic signature platform, Itsme can be used to simplify the signing process and ensure the identity of the signer.

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What form of encryption is used for a digital signature?

Digital signatures use cryptographic techniques to ensure the authenticity of the document and the identity of the signer. A common form of encryption in this context is asymmetric encryption. This uses a key pair: a private key known only to the signer and a public key available to the recipient of the signed document. The private key is used to generate the signature, while the public key is used to verify the signature.

Using these encryption techniques, it becomes almost impossible for third parties to forge the signature or alter the document without being noticed. This strengthens the integrity and security of digital signatures and contributes to their legal validity.

In the world of digital signatures, AES provides a high level of reliability and security, making it a valuable tool for businesses and professionals. Whether you are considering switching to digital signatures or just want to learn more about the technology behind it, AES remains an important part of the modern business world. It offers not only efficiency, but also peace of mind knowing that your documents are signed securely and legally. Discover today how AES can transform and optimize your business processes. And don't forget that with our Sign solution for digital signatures at Billtobox , you can work even more efficiently.