A digital signature is a common term used in various sectors nowadays. You can consider it a secure version of the digital key, which is provided to any valid institution or authority. A digital signature is basically a public key encryption procedure that is used to create signatures digitally.
Usually, the Controller of Certifying Authority or the CCA has a few agencies that can provide this digital signature certificate to any applicant. When the DSC or the digital signature certificate is provided to the applicant, the applicant can sign any document, and it will show the authenticity of that document. If you are interested in the digital signature certificate, then this is exactly for you.
Digital signature certificate: Benefits
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Authentication or validity
DSC is quite beneficial, especially when it comes to authenticating personal detail. Online transactions related to the business are the main field where DSC is widely used.
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Time-saving as well as cost-effective
When there was a paper and pen system, you needed to sign each and every document one by one physically. It was a time-consuming way to conclude a deal. But, nowadays, it is just one click away to sign any huge document. Whatever file is sent via email or any other data transmission system, you can easily sign it. You can send them back instantly as well, saving time in the process. Also, you have no need to be present just to sign one document.
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Data integrity
When one document is signed via digital mode, DSC is locked with that particular document only. So, there is no way of altering the document. Also, once the digital signature is done, there is no way of editing the document. So, it will be a very safe option for sharing any data.
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Verification of documents
As the DSC is an authorised way of signing any document, the receiver of your signed document will get assured that you have signed the document with your consent.
Classes of digital signature certificate
A total of three types of digital signature certificates are available as follows.
- Class 1: This is a very basic type that is used only for individuals.
- Class 2: This is a relatively higher grade type that is provided to signatory institutions. This DSC is quite crucial when it comes to filing returns with the ROC. This DSC can easily track any kind of fraudulent activity, and you can be sure of safe and secure transactions.
- Class 3: This is the top most category that is provided to e-auction organisers. This DSC comes with a top-notch security service to deal with all data properly. It is also known as a high-insurance digital signature certificate. For all kinds of e-commerce businesses, this class 3 DSC can be used.
Digital signature certificate: Mandatory documents for submitting your digital signature certificate
Three main documents for submitting a DSC are:
- A properly filled application form
- ID proof, along with a photo of the applicant
- Address proof
Digital signature certificate: What are its components?
A digital signature certificate consists of some public keys as well as some private keys. The software is also mandatory; it will help to convert the physical data into a digital algorithm. Here is the detailed list of the components of a digital signature certificate:
- The public key for the authentication system
- Contact details, which will consist of the phone number, email id, etc.
- Expiration date
- Issuing authority of the digital signature certificate
- Serial number of the DSC
Digital signature certificate: Validity of the DSC
A digital signature certificate is usually valid for one year to two years, but you can renew it easily. To keep going with DSC seamlessly, you may apply for the renewal at least seven days prior to the expiry date.
FAQs
What is the valid span of a digital signature certificate?
Usually, the validity of a digital signature certificate is for one year to two years.
How many classes of digital signature certificates are present?
A total of three types of digital signature certificates are present, which are class I, class II, and class III.
What is the major cause or purpose of a digital signature certificate?
The major purpose of a digital signature certificate is to validate any document through digital or electronic mode.
Who can issue your digital signature certificate?
A licensed certifying authority can issue your DSC under section 24.
Is there any possibility of getting a fake DSC?
Usually, all digital signature certificates are encrypted with a private key; as long as the key is safe with you, there is no chance of getting a fake one.