Electronic signatures (e-Sign) have become an essential element in the digital world, allowing transactions and agreements to be carried out efficiently and securely. In Indonesia, the use of electronic signatures is regulated under two main categories: certified and uncertified electronic signatures.
1. Certified Electronic Signature
A certified electronic signature is a type of electronic signature verified by an officially recognized electronic certification provider. This provider acts as a trusted third party, ensuring the authenticity, integrity, and non-repudiation of the electronic signature.
Characteristics of Certified Electronic Signatures:
- Legal Strength: In Indonesia, certified electronic signatures hold the same legal power as handwritten signatures, in accordance with the relevant regulations. This is governed by Law No. 11 of 2008 on Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE Law) and Government Regulation No. 82 of 2012.
- Identity Verification: Users of certified signatures must go through a strict authentication process, including in-depth identity verification, to obtain an electronic certificate. This certificate contains verified identity information.
- Audit Trail: Certified signatures include an audit trail that allows users to track the time, location, and device used to sign the document, providing added protection against potential forgery or tampering.
2. Uncertified Electronic Signature
An uncertified electronic signature is an electronic signature that has not gone through a validation process by an authorized certification provider. This type is easier to implement as it does not require a third-party provider.
Characteristics of Uncertified Electronic Signatures:
- Identity Verification: This signature does not require formal identity verification through a third party. Sometimes, a simple email confirmation or password is used to approve the document.
- Lower Costs: Compared to certified electronic signatures, which require services from an official certification provider, uncertified electronic signatures do not incur additional costs, making them more economical.
- Legal Strength: Uncertified electronic signatures can be recognized in certain conditions.
- Greater Flexibility: With fewer formal procedures, uncertified signatures are more frequently used for internal documents, such as team approvals or basic form completions.
- Quick and Easy Use: Uncertified electronic signatures can be used more quickly, as they do not require additional identity verification. Users simply sign the document using digital tools like a stylus, a signature image, or an approval click, completing administrative processes swiftly.
- Suitable for Various Internal Uses.
3. Verified Electronic Signature
The verified electronic signature combines features of both previous types. This signature is an ideal choice for businesses that want signature verification at a more affordable price.
Characteristics of Verified Electronic Signatures:
- Identity Verification: Users must undergo an identity verification process, such as logging into an e-signature application.
- Quick and Easy Use: Verified electronic signatures are as easy to use as uncertified signatures, allowing for fast administrative processing.
- Legal Strength: Verified signatures also carry legal power in accordance with applicable regulations and can be combined with the use of e-seals.
- Greater Flexibility: Verified signatures have similar features to uncertified signatures, making them flexible and suitable for documents that require a quick turnaround.
- Audit Trail: Verified signatures also include an audit trail, enabling users to track the time, location, and device used to sign the document, offering additional protection against forgery or tampering.
- More Affordable Cost: Verified signatures are generally more affordable than certified signatures.
- Suitable for Various Internal and External Business Document Needs.
The Right Choice for Businesses?
When choosing between certified, uncertified, and verified electronic signatures, it is essential for businesses to consider their specific needs. Verified signatures are ideal for businesses that prioritize security, convenience, speed, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, particularly for internal documents. This type continues to support effective digitalization, improving efficiency without compromising security.