Electronic signature: Improving efficiency and security in the digital age

 

In today’s fast-paced digital world, electronic signatures are revolutionizing the way documents, contracts and agreements are authenticated. By replacing traditional handwritten signatures with their digital counterparts, electronic signatures offer a convenient, efficient and secure method of verifying the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents. This article will examine the concept of electronic signature, different types and their applications, with an emphasis on the current legislative framework in Bulgaria.

 

What is an electronic signature and since when is it used?

 

An electronic signature, as defined by the Electronic Document and Electronic Signature Law (ZEDEP), is a set of electronic data that is uniquely associated with a natural or legal person and is used to sign electronic documents, thus confirming the origin and integrity of a document. The use of electronic signatures gained popularity with the advent of digital technologies, and their legal recognition began with the introduction of the Law on Electronic Documents and Electronic Signatures in Bulgaria in 2001.

 

What is the electronic signatures used for?

 

Electronic signatures serve multiple purposes, including performing various accounting services, as well as others aimed at streamlining business processes, reducing paperwork, and ensuring the integrity and authenticity of electronic transactions. They are widely used for:

 

Contractual Agreements: Electronic signatures facilitate the signing of contracts and agreements by eliminating the need for physical presence and enabling remote transactions.

 

Document authentication: They provide a secure method of validating the integrity and provenance of electronic documents, ensuring that the content remains unchanged.

 

Regulatory compliance: Electronic signatures help organizations comply with legal and regulatory requirements, such as when submitting tax returns, applications or official reports to government authorities.

 

Online Transactions: E-commerce platforms use electronic signatures to improve the security and reliability of online transactions, protecting both consumers and businesses.

 

Types of electronic signature

 

To meet different levels of security and legal requirements, electronic signatures can be categorized into three main types:

 

Simple electronic signature: also known as basic electronic signature, it is the most common type and is often used for routine transactions. It relies on electronic data attached to a document indicating the signer’s intent to authenticate the content. However, it does not provide advanced security features or meet the highest legal standards.

 

Enhanced Electronic Signature (UES): Enhanced Electronic Signature offers a higher level of security and legal validity. It includes additional features such as biometrics or PIN codes that uniquely link the signature to the signer. The UES guarantees the integrity of the signed document and the irrefutability of the signature.

 

Qualified Electronic Signature (QES): A qualified electronic signature backed by a qualified certificate issued by a qualified certificate service provider is the most secure and legally binding type of electronic signature. It meets the most stringent requirements, ensuring the highest level of trust, integrity and legal admissibility.

 

Who can get a Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)

 

The conditions for obtaining a Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) in Bulgaria vary depending on the legal status of the signatory:

 

Natural persons: Bulgarian citizens, foreigners, as well as persons with a valid EGN can apply for KEP. They must obtain a qualified certificate from a provider of qualified certification services in accordance with the requirements of Bulgarian legislation.

 

Legal entities: Companies, organizations and other legal entities registered in Bulgaria can also receive KEP. To do this, they must obtain a qualified certificate issued by a qualified trust service provider using the company’s legal representative or authorized person.

 

What services are the different types of electronic signatures used for?

 

Different types of electronic signatures serve a range of services, depending on the required level of security and legal compliance:

 

Simplified electronic signatures are used in everyday transactions such as e-mail exchanges, basic agreements and low-value contracts where legal validation is not a primary concern.

 

Advanced Electronic Signatures are suitable for business contracts, financial transactions and other situations where a higher level of security, integrity and non-repudiation is required.

 

Qualified electronic signatures are crucial for legally significant documents, such as high-value contracts, notarial deeds and other official documents requiring the highest level of trust and compliance with the law.

 

Electronic signatures have undoubtedly changed the way we process digital transactions and streamline administrative processes. In Bulgaria, the legal framework supports the use of electronic signatures, providing a stable basis for their widespread use. By choosing the appropriate type of electronic signature, individuals and legal entities can increase efficiency, reduce paperwork and ensure the security and integrity of electronic documents in accordance with Bulgarian legislation. The adoption of electronic signatures enables businesses and individuals to navigate the digital landscape with confidence, contributing to a more efficient and secure society.

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