Electronic and Digital Signatures

Abstract

The advent of e-government and e-services has changed the way state agencies and local government offices do business. As a result, electronic systems and processes have become as important as traditional paper and ink. In a paper environment, a hand signature, also known as a “wet signature,” authorizes and authenticates the content of a document. A signature provides a level of trustworthiness and accountability that aids the conduct of business. Electronic signatures extend the function of handwritten signatures to electronic documents, providing a way for two parties to conduct business confidently in an electronic environment. Up-to-date technologies and procedures must meet the demand for trustworthiness where hand signatures are not viable.