E signature technology improves many processes http://vpnssoft.net/webroot-antivirus for documenting by reducing delays and saving money by decreasing postage, paper and faxing. It also decreases the time it takes to distribute documents to signers and enhances the ease at the ability to sign documents from remote locations.

A basic electronic signature is a digital representation of a handwritten or typed name. Electronic signatures of this kind don’t include encryption or authentication features or verify the identity of the signer. A more sophisticated eSignature utilizes verification technology to create an encrypted hash of signature data and links it to a public key that is associated with the signature’s electronic identification. The recipient is able to decrypt the hash, verify it to the public key and ensure that the document has not been altered since it was signed.

An agency can also employ additional verification methods to improve the security of eSignatures such as passwords, two-factor authentication and biometrics. These more sophisticated types of eSignatures are utilized in situations where there is a higher chance that the validity of the signature is challenged.

Agencies should give special consideration to long-term, electronically-signed records that preserve legal rights. Records with these rights may require longer software cycles, and it is crucial to ensure the integrity of a record during any migration or upgrading processes. NARA’s guidance on scheduling records can assist agencies in determining the proper retention period for these records.