E signature technology speeds up a number of documentation workflows, reducing delays during the review process and saving money on postage and paper, as well as faxing. It also decreases the time it takes to distribute documents for signers and improves the ease with which they can be signed from remote locations.
A basic electronic signature is a digital representation of a typed or handwritten name. These types of electronic signatures do not come with security features, encryption or authentication, or verify the identity of the signer. A more sophisticated eSignature uses verification technology to generate a hash of the signature and links it with a public key associated the signature’s identification. The recipient can decrypt the hash and compare it with the public key and confirm that the document hasn’t been altered since it was signed.
An agency may employ additional verification methods to improve the security of eSignatures including passwords, two-factor authentication and biometrics. These more sophisticated types are used when there’s an increased chance that the authenticity of the signature will be challenged.
Agencies should give special consideration to long-term, electronically-signed records that preserve legal rights. These records could require longer software cycles, and it’s important to maintain the integrity of a record when it comes to upgrading or migration processes. The guidance provided by NARA on records scheduling can assist agencies in determining vpnssoft.net/webroot-antivirus the most appropriate timeframes for the retention of these records.