Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) are the digital equivalent (that is electronic format) of physical or paper certificates. Few Examples of physical certificates are drivers’ licenses, passports or membership cards. Certificates serve as proof of identity of an individual for a certain purpose; for example, a driver’s license identifies someone who can legally drive in a particular country. Likewise, a digital certificate can be presented electronically to prove one’s identity, to access information or services on the Internet or to sign certain documents digitally.
A licensed Certifying Authority (CA) issues the digital signature. Certifying Authority (CA) means a person who has been granted a license to issue a digital signature certificate under Section 24 of the Indian IT-Act 2000.
Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
The DSC is available with validity period of 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years.
Class 3 DSC is now mandated to be used for all types of transactions in India.
Class 3 DSC can be used for:
Digital signing is better than paper or ink signing when it comes to protecting a document. The digital signature-making software ensures that it is encrypted and it will protect the document from getting tampered or used wrongly.
Digital signature certificateprovide legal validity as well as make sure the e-signature is verified. It can stand in any court of law. Additionally, time stamping plus ability to track and archive documents improve as well as simplify compliance and audit.
There are several benefits of e-signing or using digital signatures. Using it means we are reducing waste plus minimizing the cost that would have been paid for paper. Also, using digital signatures means giving a clear indication to customers, employees, partners and stakeholders that your business cares about the environment.
When it comes to signing a document or paper, there is no higher level of security. Digital signatures eliminate the risk of forgery, as they are backed by a unique digital identity, based on accepted Public Key Infrastructure standards.