What is a Digital Signature?

A digital signature is a very simple, secure, convenient, and a time-saving way of signing electronic documents or authenticating certain online transactions. Technically, it is a code, unique to the person who is signing the electronic document or authenticating the transaction.

What is ‘DSC’?

DSC is short for Digital Signature Certificate.

What is the difference between a digital signature a digital certificate and a digital signature certificate (DSC)?

These terms are practically used interchangeably to refer to a digital signature.

Is a digital signature legally valid?

Yes, the Information Technology Act 2000 in India has given legal validity to digital signatures.

Can a documented sign with a digital signature be considered as valid evidence?

Yes, the Indian Evidence Act, 1858 has been modified and amended on lines with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and thus any electronic document signed with a valid digital signature is considered a valid piece of evidence similar to a physical document signed with a hand-written signature.

Why has the usage of digital signatures in India increased dramatically in recent years?

The Ministry of Company Affairs (MCA), Government of India (GoI) has initiated the MCA21 program, for easy and secure access to MCA services in a manner that best suits the businesses and citizens. MCA21 is envisioned to provide anytime and anywhere services to businesses. It is a pioneering program being the first mission mode e-governance project being undertaken in India.
Besides, use of digital signature has also been made mandatory for certain transactions. In certain cases, though usage of a digital signature is not mandatory, it offers a lot of convenience over the traditional methods.

Thus, the usage of digital signatures has increased dramatically in India in recent years and is very much likely to increase further.

Can two or more people have the same digital signature?

No, a digital signature is unique and thus two or more individuals/entities cannot have the same digital signature.

Can a digital signature be forged?

It is practically impossible to forge a digital signature. It is secure and has been applied online for authentication. Thus it is more secure than a hand-written signature which can be seen and potentially imitated by any person who sees a document bearing the hand-written signature.

What is the validity of the digital signature?

You can choose to obtain a digital signature of 1 year or 2-year validity from the date of issuance.

What happens after 1 year or 2 years?

After expiry of the validity period, the digital signature becomes invalid. You can then obtain a valid digital signature by following a simple procedure.

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