Signing documents is often a hassle. People have to make time from their busy schedules to reach the concerned office or set up to sign the documents. Moreover, older people suffer from the pain of signing papers again and again as they do not match their registered prints due to shaky hands. Technology has put these issues to rest with the introduction of E-signatures and digital signatures.
E-signatures and digital signatures are two distinct types of signatures, which are often confused to be the same. The difference between these types then defines their use cases, security, authentication, and compliance. Exploring their details is crucial to ensure you do not make any mistakes and face the grim consequences later on.
Scroll down into the details of this article to learn and explore how E-signatures and digital signatures differ from each other and pick the right one for your setup.
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Top 5 Differences between E-Signatures and Digital Signatures
E-signatures and digital signatures are rapidly becoming an active part of modern, technologically advanced societies. However, many confuse them to be the same and end up using them wrongfully, which leads to further complications. Learning about the specifications and differences of both is extremely crucial to put them to rightful use.
Here are the major differences between E-signatures and digital signatures you must know to make the right choice.
1. Purpose
Purpose is the major point of difference between E-signatures and digital signatures. The former are used to sign agreements and contracts online. However, the latter highlights the authenticity of a document and proves that it is not forged. In other words, E-signatures are for business contracts, and digital signatures are for state certificates or documents.
Most organizations and setups need E-signatures to sign the agreements with their clients without the need for physical appearance. It helps them streamline operations and offer robust customer service. Authorities often contact Kofax UAE suppliers to opt for the right E-signature solutions for their setup and ensure quality service for their clients.
2. Use Cases
Use cases are the next point of difference between E-signatures and digital signatures you must be aware of. The purpose of the two types of signatures highlights and specifies their use cases. E-signatures are used for contract signing, so business contracts, lease agreements, and other commercial agreements are the major use cases.
On the contrary, the purpose of digital signatures is to prove document authenticity, so they are used on certificates. These can also be used on legal documents or property papers to prove their authenticity and rule out the possibility of forgery. Both types of signatures have their specific uses, and you should not confuse them.
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3. Security and Authentication
Security and authentication are the next points of difference between E-signatures and digital signatures. E-signatures can be copied and misused because they are just scanned from original signs. These can be misused without the knowledge of the concerned person.
On the contrary, due to the unique and traceable digital print of digital signatures, they cannot be misused or forged. Digital signatures are considered more reliable due to their higher security and authentication. However, you can also ensure high security and authentication of E-signatures by opting for unique digital print for them.
4. Compliance Requirements
Compliance requirements are another typical point of difference between E-signatures and digital signatures. E-signatures are usually used for personal agreements or business contracts. Due to this, the responsibility for their verification lies with the service provider. They must verify the identity of the signee to hold the agreement and ensure it complies with the requirements.
On the other hand, digital signatures are used for certificates and legal documents, so they need to follow advanced compliance requirements. The signatures must be created using unique digital fingerprints which can be traced to their origin. All of this is necessary to prevent potential fraud attempts.
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5. Technology and Infrastructure
Technology and infrastructure are the last points of difference between E-signatures and digital signatures. The way of their application on the specific documents differs and sets them apart from each other. E-signatures can be scanned from the images of handwritten signatures. On the other hand, digital signatures require digital technology to create a unique digital fingerprint.
Ensuring the security and authenticity of both is crucial to avoid forgery or misuse. You can also opt for a unique digital print for E-signatures to prevent their misuse. You can consult Kofax UAE suppliers for the perfect signature according to your specific requirements and utilize them efficiently.
Do you need E-signatures or digital signatures?
Generally, business setups and the public need E-signatures so they can utilize them for robust contract signings and agreements. However, if you deal with official certificates and documents, digital signs are best suited for your needs. Feel free to consult professional service providers for your specific needs and make a profitable investment.
