In the modern world, we are increasingly using a computer and the Internet, so all daily affairs are solved mainly through the Internet. In addition, it is very convenient and does not take much time. But in order to send documents electronically, you need an electronic signature. Only not always is it real, which is why it is very important to be able to check it for reliability. How to verify the authenticity of a qualified electronic signature? The answer to the question can be found in this article.
Electronic signature
So, what is an electronic signature and why is it needed? EDS is a virtual signature that is received as a result of data conversion. It allows you to confirm the accuracy of the information, sign the consent or disagreement in official papers, and is also a protection against falsification and substitution of documents. EDS is stored in electronic form, it can be created on the website of the State Service. There are two types of ES - simple and enhanced, which is divided into two more points:
- Simple signature. It is created by using various passwords and codes and allows you to recognize who signed the document. However, this type of signature does not allow verification of a document for its change from the moment it was signed. It is not a very reliable option.
- Enhanced signature: unskilled. Unlike a simple signature, it allows you to check documents for changes from the moment of signing. Often along with this type of signature is a certificate from the organization. But for most cases, it is not required.
- Enhanced signature: qualified. More reliable than all other signatures. Most often used between two government agencies. A certificate is attached to the signature, moreover, from an accredited organization and with the participation of the FSB.
Verification of electronic signature
How to verify an electronic signature and why should it be verified? EDS verification is very important for all individuals and legal entities. Forging an electronic signature is very simple, but it will not be registered, which is a violation of the law. If the EDS is not in the database, then this is a clear fact of fraud. It happens that a person signed documents, sent by e-mail, and later claims that he did not sign anything. When the verification of the signature authenticity begins, a problem arises: the signature is false, and the document, accordingly, is invalid. To avoid such situations, you need to check the digital signature in a timely manner. However, without using special programs or sites this cannot be done.
For those who are wondering how to verify the authenticity of an electronic signature, here is the answer:
- In online mode.
- Using special programs that can be installed on a computer.
Online Check
This option is very convenient in that you do not need to install additional software. This method only requires Internet access. In Russia, you can check the electronic signature on the "State Services". Many receive EDS through this site. In order to create an electronic signature, it is necessary to indicate the data of the passport, SNILS and TIN when registering, and then get the signature in a government agency in electronic form.
In order to verify the authenticity, you must perform the following steps:
- Go to the portal that you have selected.
- Download a document file with a signature that needs to be verified.
- Get the result of the check after a while.
It turned out to be not so difficult to verify an electronic signature.
Software Verification
You can verify the signature with the help of additional software. This will take more time, but it is an equally effective option. For this option, you will need Internet access and free space on your computer. An organization that issues certificates for digital signatures can provide software for authentication. In addition, the owner of the electronic signature must have the software. A plus in this solution is increased security and the inability to intercept data. Otherwise, the principle of operation is the same as in online mode.
Certificate Verification
Verification of the electronic signature certificate is necessary to establish the affiliation of a person identified to it. This document contains all the key files related to user authentication. A certificate can be issued to an individual or legal entity upon registration of a signature. You can get it by mail or at the registration point. But many are wondering how to verify an electronic signature certificate. So, to check it, you need to know certain information:
- A unique and non-repeating code number;
- validity dates of the document;
- data of an individual or legal entity;
- if an individual, then know the full name or nickname;
- if legal, then the full name of the organization, its location and registration;
- name of organization that issued the document;
- country of issue of the document;
- restrictions on the use of EDS.
After checking both the electronic signature and the certificate, it may turn out that the documents are invalid. But this does not have to mean that you are working with a scammer. Perhaps the certificate is simply irrelevant, you need to check by dates and contact the appropriate organization. Check the validity of the digital signature can be any interested person.
EDS advantages
Currently, all organizations and most individuals have at least once heard of electronic signatures. Organizations and enterprises are already taking full advantage of all its advantages. Basically, EDS is used when processing documents with clients, money transfers, etc. That is why it is very important to know all the nuances of EDS. As mentioned above, there are three types of electronic signatures: a simple, unskilled and enhanced qualified electronic signature. How to verify the authenticity of the document is also clear. But the pros and cons, all the nuances of the digital signature must be considered.
Let's start with the pros:
- Legal force. An electronic signature has the same power as in kind. Of course, you must first legalize it.
- Data security. Unlike a real signature, electronic is the most secure. It is very difficult to fake, but even if the signature is invalid or fake, it is easy to verify.
- Quickly. EDS is not required to print documents, sign them, and then send them by mail. Now everything is very simple and fast.
- Various privileges. Different rights are granted to the user depending on the type of EDS. An individual or a legal entity has the most extensive privileges with a qualified EP.
EDS Cons
However, the EDS has its drawbacks, although they are not very significant:
- The possibility of loss. The electronic signature must be protected, do not tell anyone access codes and keys, otherwise it may be stolen. No one would want other people's documents to be executed with his signature.
- Receiving. To get an EDS, you need to go through more than one registration step.
- Renouncement. It is impossible to refuse this signature. This is once and for all.
- Verification Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to verify an electronic signature. These are the people scammers use and fake a signature by inserting a picture into an electronic document.