Electronic signatures explained – Part 2: How to verify identity of the signer | Signicat

Summary

The video discusses the importance of digital signatures and the need for identification when signing documents electronically. It highlights the use of electronic IDs in the Nordic countries for verifying identities, ensuring that the signer is properly authenticated. Various methods, such as uploading identity documents and taking a self-portrait, are also mentioned. The significance of trust in the digital signature process is emphasized, alongside the need for compliance with standards to ensure the signature's validity and that the document hasn't been altered.

Takeaways

• 😀 Digital signatures require identification to ensure the signer is known.
• 😀 Simply scribbling on a screen does not provide identification.
• 😀 eID systems in Nordic countries are used for electronic signatures and identification.
• 😀 A trusted party verifies the identity of the signer in digital signature systems.
• 😀 Identity verification can also be done during the signing process, such as through uploading documents and selfies.
• 😀 Adding extra steps for identification can increase user friction but may be necessary for high-value transactions.
• 😀 High-value transactions require careful verification of the signer's identity.
• 😀 Standards exist to define how digital signatures should be structured to ensure trust.
• 😀 Trust in digital signatures is crucial, as it guarantees the document's integrity.
• 😀 Regulations and standards ensure compliance and trustworthiness in signed documents.

Q & A

Why is it important to know who signed a document?

It's important to know the identity of the signer to ensure the validity and legitimacy of the signature, especially in legal and official contexts.

What problem arises when a signature is just a scribble on a screen?

A scribble on a screen doesn't provide any identification, making it difficult to confirm who actually signed the document.

How is identification typically handled when signing documents electronically?

Identification is typically handled using an electronic ID (eID) or through other means like uploading identity documents and performing a facial recognition check.

What is an eID, and how does it relate to electronic signatures?

An eID (electronic identification) is a digital means of verifying someone's identity. It is commonly used in Nordic countries to confirm the identity of a person signing a document electronically.

Can a person be identified while signing a document? How?

Yes, a person can be identified during the signing process, often by uploading identity documents and taking a self-portrait, which is then compared to the uploaded document.

What are the trade-offs when identifying a signer during the signing process?

The trade-off is that this method adds more work and friction to the process, as it requires extra steps like document upload and facial recognition. However, it provides higher security for important transactions.

Why is it crucial to know the identity of the person signing a high-value document?

For high-value documents, it's important to verify the signer's identity to ensure the document's authenticity and to prevent fraud or misuse.

What role do standards play in digital signatures?

Standards are essential in defining how digital signatures are constructed, ensuring trust in the signature, and verifying that the document hasn't been tampered with.

How do digital signatures contribute to trust in a document?

Digital signatures help establish trust by confirming the identity of the signer, ensuring the document remains unchanged, and complying with regulations and standards.

What does it mean for a signed document to comply with regulations and standards?

Compliance with regulations and standards means that the digital signature meets the legal and technical requirements for authenticity, security, and integrity of the document.