# Types of Electronic or Digital Signatures

## Types of Electronic Signatures

Electronic signatures are generally classified into three levels under regulations such as **eIDAS (EU)**:

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### 1. Simple Electronic Signature (SES)

A **Simple Electronic Signature (SES)** is any electronic data used to indicate acceptance or intent.

#### Examples

* Typing a name
* Clicking “I Agree”
* Uploading a scanned signature
* Email confirmation

#### Characteristics

* Confirms intent
* Does not inherently verify identity
* May include audit logs or document sealing (not mandatory)
* Lowest level of assurance

**Example:** Approving an internal memo.

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### 2. Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)

An **Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)** provides higher assurance of signer identity and document integrity.

#### Must Meet the Following Requirements

* Be uniquely linked to the signer
* Be capable of identifying the signer
* Be under the signer’s sole control
* Detect document modifications (signature becomes invalid if altered)

#### Common Implementations May Include

* OTP-based verification
* Biometric verification
* Secure cryptographic binding
* Tamper-evident controls

**Example:** Signing vendor agreements or NDAs.

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### 3. Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)

A **Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)** provides the highest level of legal assurance under eIDAS.

#### Key Characteristics

* Created using a qualified digital certificate
* Issued by a licensed Certificate Authority
* Legally equivalent to handwritten signatures in the EU

#### In India, This Corresponds To

* Digital Signature Certificates (DSC)
* Issued by licensed Certifying Authorities under the IT Act, 2000

**Example:** Government filings, regulated financial statements.

***

### Recommendation

While **SES** may be legally valid in many cases, **AES or QES/DSC-based signatures** are recommended for sensitive, high-value, or regulated transactions.


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