Signing documents online still raises many questions about validity, security, and, above all, the concept itself. After all, what is an Electronic Signature?

In general, an electronic signature is a broad term that refers to any electronic form of expressing consent in relation to a digital document. In other words, it is any method used to confirm that a person agrees with the content of a document in a digital environment.

This can include different forms of authentication, such as logging in to a platform, confirming by email or SMS, clicking an acceptance button, or using other mechanisms that make it possible to identify the signer and record their agreement.

An Electronic Signature is not just an image

It is important to clarify that an electronic signature is not simply an image pasted onto a document.

This type of visual representation may simulate a handwritten signature, but on its own it does not confirm the authenticity of the signer or protect the integrity of the document after signing.

The strength of an electronic signature depends on the method used to identify the person and the level of security applied to the signing process.

What are the types of Electronic Signature?

The classification of electronic signature types was established by Law No. 14,063/2020, which divides signatures into three levels:

• Simple electronic signature: It uses basic identification methods, such as email, login, or acceptance confirmation.
• Advanced electronic signature: It uses more robust authentication and identity control mechanisms.
• Qualified electronic signature: It uses a digital certificate issued within the ICP-Brasil framework, Brazil’s official public key infrastructure, providing the highest level of security and reliability when identifying the signer.

How does an Electronic Signature work in practice?

An electronic signature can be carried out in different ways, depending on the platform used, such as:

• Authentication by email or SMS;
• Login to a system with access records;
• Signature drawn on screen;
• Or clicking to confirm acceptance.

These methods generate records of the signing process, such as date, time, and signer identification, which help prove authorship and document integrity.

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