The European Union (EU) has defined a standard called eIDAS. The purpose of this regulation is to achieve a satisfactory security level for electronic identification and its additional services. When building something technical that requires security measures, such as a digital signature, there is often a technical standard to follow. In the EU, the ETSI 319 142 standard is applicable. This standard defines three levels of signature: Qualified Electronic Signature (QES), Advanced Electronic Signature (AES), and Standard Electronic Signature (SES).
QES: Qualified Electronic Signature
This is the highest standard for a digital signature. It meets specific legal requirements and is provided by a service certified as a Qualified Trust Service Provider (QTSP).
AES: Advanced Electronic Signature
This level of signature adheres to a high security standard and is linked to a unique identified person. AES provides a higher level of assurance than a standard electronic signature and is commonly used for legal and business purposes.
SES: Standard Electronic Signature
This is the lowest level for a compliant digital signature. Although this type of signature is not linked to a unique identified person, it still complies with technical standards and eIDAS, making it legally binding in the EU.
ECIT Sign delivers two methods of digital signing, available to all our customers. Our eID signature is available in several countries and complies with the AES level. It is primarily used for legal and business purposes and situations where the identification of a signer is important.
We also provide an on-screen signing method, which is widely used and appreciated worldwide. Since not all countries have a centralized eID system, the on-screen signing method, compliant with the SES level and eIDAS, offers a quick and versatile way of signing any document.
For businesses and corporations in need of the highest standard, we may also offer QES signatures. To learn more about this, please contact us!
