Overview of Digital Signatures

 

• Why use a digital signature?

The purpose of a digital signature is the same as your handwritten signature. Instead of using pen and paper, a digital signature uses digital keys (public-key cryptology). Like the pen and paper method, a digital signature attaches the identity of the signer to the document and records a binding commitment to the document. Unlike a handwritten signature, It is considered impossible to forge a digital signature the way a written signature might be.

The real value is in avoiding the paper and keeping your data electronic.

To use digital signature software requires some initial setup: you will need a signing certificate. If in your business you commonly sign documents or need to verify the authenticity of documents, then digital signatures can help you save time and paper-handling costs. The DigiStamp web site and software is designed to help you with the process and allow you to take advantage of the convenience and power of digital signatures.

• What is needed to create a digital signature?

The digital signature software is provided at this web site for you to install and use. You will need to get your personal signing certificate. Creating your certificate involves creating a public-private digital key pair and a Certificate Authority. The private key is something you keep only to yourself. You sign a document with your private key. Then, you give your public key to anyone who wants to verify your signature. The process of creating your public-private key pair is easy and quick; we will help you with process.

Public Keys: The public key certificate creates proof of the identity of the signer by using the services of a certificate authority. A certificate authority uses a variety of processes to associate the particular public key with an individual. You give your public key to anyone who wants to verify your signature. The combination of your public key and proof of identity result in a public key certificate - also called a signer's certificate.

 

Private Keys: The private key is something you keep only to yourself. You sign a document with your private key. The public and private keys are related mathematically. Knowing the public key allows a signature to be verified but does not allow new signatures to be created. If your private key is not kept “private,” then someone could maliciously create your signature on a document without your consent. It is critical to keep your private key secret.