Unveiling The Seal: Decoding The Distinction Between Digital Signatures And Electronic Signatures

Although often used interchangeably, there are key differences between electronic signatures and digital signatures.

What is the difference?

An electronic signature or "e-signature" is an umbrella term used for any mark made by electronic means, or made in an electronic medium, which shows agreement by the signatory.¹ These can take numerous forms such as a picture/bitmap scan of your ink signature, an emoji, a sound, typing your name or initials in the allotted signature slot of a document, or drawing your unique mark on a document with a mouse or stylus. ²³

A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature. It uses digital certificates and public key infrastructure (PKI) to encrypt documents and make them more secure.