7 Facts About Free Digital Signatures You Must Know

In today’s digital era, the need to streamline administrative processes is growing. One of the most practical and secure solutions is a free digital signature. Yes, digital signatures can be free!

However, before using a digital signature, there are some important facts you need to know. This article will cover seven key facts about free digital signatures, including how they work, their legality, and their advantages over traditional signatures.

1. Digital Signatures Are Different from Simple Electronic Signatures

Although both are in digital form, digital signatures are not the same as simple electronic signatures, such as a scanned signature image. Digital signatures are equipped with an Electronic Certificate issued by a Certificate Authority (CA) like VIDA. This certificate ensures that digital signatures:

• Contain encrypted data, making them more secure.
• Can be used to verify the authenticity of a document.
• Are legally recognized under Indonesia’s Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE No. 11 of 2008).

Unlike scanned signatures, digital signatures not only provide proof of agreement but also ensure the integrity and authenticity of the document.

Read more: Understanding Online Signatures

2. Digital Signatures Require an ID Card (KTP)

For a digital signature to be legally valid, users must first go through an identity verification process. This involves:

• Uploading an ID card (KTP) to verify identity.
• Performing biometric verification to match data with the ID.
• Issuing an electronic certificate that serves as the user’s digital identity.

This process ensures that only the rightful owner can use the signature while protecting documents from forgery.

3. Has the Same Legal Standing as a Wet Signature

A free digital signature is essentially an uncertified electronic signature. But many wonder whether a free digital signature holds the same legal weight as a handwritten (wet) signature. The answer is yes.

However, for greater security, a digital signature should include signature creation data and verifiable signer identity.

4. Uses Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

Digital signatures operate using a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) system, which involves two cryptographic keys:

• Private Key: Used to sign the document.
• Public Key: Used to verify the authenticity of the signature.

Process:

1. The signed document is encrypted with a private key.
2. The recipient verifies the signature using the public key.
3. If the document has been altered, the system detects the change, and the signature is deemed invalid.

This technology ensures that documents remain secure and cannot be modified after signing.

Read more: How Digital Signatures Help Prevent Document Fraud

5. Fast, Cost-Effective, and Environmentally Friendly

Compared to handwritten signatures, free digital signatures offer several advantages:

• Faster Process: No need to print documents or send them via courier. Signing can be done in minutes.
• Cost-Effective: Eliminates printing costs.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces paper and ink usage, supporting sustainability efforts.

Read more: Digital Signature Examples for Finance Teams

6. How to Verify the Authenticity of a Digital Signature

If you want to check whether a digitally signed document is valid and certified, here are some verification methods:

1. Verify via Kominfo’s Website

• Visit tte.kominfo.go.id/verifyPDF.
• Click “Upload PDF Document” and upload the document you want to verify.
• If successful, an Electronic Certificate will appear, displaying the signer’s details.

2. Verify in Adobe Reader

• Open the document in Adobe Reader.
• Click on the digital signature, then select Signature Properties.
• Signature information will appear, indicating whether it is valid.

3. Verify in Microsoft Word

• Open the document in Microsoft Word.
• Select the Insert menu and click Picture.
• Right-click on the digital signature and select Verify Signature.
• The system will display whether the signature is valid or not.

7. Digital Signatures Don’t Have to Look Like a Handwritten Signature

Interestingly, digital signatures do not have to resemble traditional handwritten signatures. In the VIDA app, users can choose from three signature styles:

• Manually drawn: To replicate a handwritten signature.
• Pre-made templates: Select from existing signature designs.
• Uploaded signature image: Use a previously created signature.

All three options remain legally valid.

Advantages of VIDA Digital Signatures

VIDA is one of Indonesia’s accredited Certificate Authorities (PSrE) that provides free digital signature services for basic needs. Here’s why VIDA stands out:

• Top-Level Security: Uses encryption technology and liveness detection to prevent fraud.
• Legally Compliant: Fully adheres to the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE) and is legally recognized.
• Easy Integration: Accessible across various devices and platforms.
• Optimal Efficiency: Speeds up the signing process while maintaining legal and security standards.

Free digital signatures are the ideal solution for fast, secure, and legally binding document processing. With advanced, legally recognized technology, digital signatures allow you to complete documents without hassle.

Use services like VIDA Sign to enjoy free digital signatures with maximum security and guaranteed legality.