An electronic signature is digital data that identifies a person or entity acting for themselves. To sign something using, the sender signs their name on a document and then attaches their fingerprint, facial image, retinal scan, or another unique identifier. Most countries have laws requiring individuals to either digitally Electronic Signature documents or affix their fingerprints to them.
Different types of E Signatures
Self-Signed Signature
A self-signed signature is an electronic signature that is created without any permission. The user commonly presses the ‘print’ button on their keyboard and prints out the signature. However, a self-signed signature can also be created using software programs such as Adobe Acrobat. When creating a self-signed signature, the user should use a visible font (such as Times New Roman) and ensure that everything is aligned correctly and that they can read the text easily. If these guidelines are followed, the self-signature will look professional.
Notary Public Signature
A notary public signature is signed by a person authorized by law to certify facts about a document. Notaries may sign documents for individuals or businesses, and their notarization requires taking specific steps. Before signing a document, a notary must obtain a certificate from a state government agency. A notary then must take several steps, including swearing or affirming that they know the identity of the people appearing before them; verifying the document’s authenticity; witnessing the document’s signing, and filing paperwork with the local county clerk’s office. Once the notary completes these processes, he or she issues a certificate indicating that the notarial act occurred. An example of a notary public certificate is shown below.
Witnessed Signature
A witnessed signature is similar to a notary public signature, except that it is done at a location where two witnesses are present. To create a witnessed signature, the party seeking to have his name recorded must apply to a court stating what type of signature is sought. Witnesses are then chosen and notified via phone call. After the witnesses agree to sign the document, they go to the location where the witness statement was filed and swear or affirm that they know the identity and current address of each person appearing before them. Then, both witnesses sign the document on the same day, giving the witnesses time to prepare their statements beforehand. If the witnesses are unable to sign the document in full view of each other, the witnesses file additional papers indicating how they came together and when the witnesses met. An example of a witnessed signature is shown below.
Electronic Signatures Today
Digital Signatures are gaining ground for several reasons. The biggest reason for their growth is convenience. With the convenience of an electronic signature, you don’t have to bother with getting the original document notarized. You can simply sign the document with your digital signature, email it to the recipient, and they can also sign the document. Electronic signatures have been around since the 1980s but have not gained mainstream acceptance. It is believed that they are not widely used because they are not legally recognized as valid as traditional signatures.
