It’s very common to see the terms “digital signature” and “electronic signature” used as if they meant the same thing. Many people assume they are identical, but they aren’t. Although both help us sign documents electronically, they serve different purposes, have different security levels, and are not used in the same situations.
In this updated guide, we revisit both concepts, explain where the confusion comes from, and outline their main characteristics so you can clearly recognize how they differ and when each one makes sense.
Digital and electronic signatures, and the technology behind them
For years, companies have relied on electronic tools to identify users, validate actions, and protect communications. Among these technologies, electronic signature and digital signature stand out as two of the most important and also two of the most misunderstood.
Even though users are increasingly familiar with digital tools, the idea that “electronic signature” and “digital signature” mean the same thing is still widespread. Let’s break that misconception.
What is an electronic signature?
In essence, the meaning of electronic signature (e‑signature) is a legal concept: any data in electronic form that a signatory uses to express their intent to sign.
According to Regulation (EU) No. 910/2014 (eIDAS), an electronic signature is “data in electronic form which is attached to or logically associated with other data in electronic form and which the signatory uses to sign.”
This means an electronic signature is simply a set of electronic data associated with a digital document. By signing electronically, the signer validates an action or procedure through an electronic medium, leaving behind a record that includes the date and time of signing.
There are different examples of electronic signatures. They come in several forms depending on their requirements and intended use. One important category is the advanced electronic signature (AES), which, under Article 26 of eIDAS, must:
- Be uniquely linked to the signatory
- Allow identification of the signatory
- Be created in a way that ensures any later modification of the data is detectable
At Signaturit, these requirements are fulfilled through a robust capture of evidence such as biometric data from the signing gesture, the device and location used, timestamps, and additional verification when needed.
Electronic Signatures are a legal concept
The key idea is this:
- An electronic signature certifies the signatory’s intent.
- It is a legal construct, not a technical one.
What is a digital signature?
A digital signature is a technical implementation of some types of electronic signatures. It uses cryptographic algorithms, usually with public key infrastructure (PKI), to ensure the authenticity and integrity of a document.
You can think of it as a cryptographic “seal” applied to a file.
A digital signature:
- Adds a unique, encrypted code to a document
- Confirms the identity of the signer through a digital certificate
- Ensures the content hasn’t been modified after signing
- Provides strong protection against tampering and impersonation
Because digital signatures depend on cryptographic keys and digital certificates issued by trusted entities, they offer a higher level of assurance.
In simple terms:
Every digital signature is an electronic signature—but not every electronic signature is digital.
How do digital signatures work?
Digital signatures rely on public key cryptography, where a signer has a private key and a corresponding public key. When signing:
- A mathematical algorithm creates a unique hash of the document.
- This hash is encrypted using the signer’s private key, generating the digital signature.
- Anyone verifying the document can use the signer’s public key to check the integrity of that hash.
If the document changes, the verification fails, instantly exposing tampering. This mechanism ensures:
- Authenticity (the signature belongs to the person it claims to)
- Integrity (the document hasn’t been altered)
- Non‑repudiation (the signer cannot deny having signed it)
Digital vs electronic signature: the key differences
The primary difference lies in purpose and nature:
Electronic Signature = Legal Purpose
- Shows the signer’s intention to sign.
- Broad, flexible, used in many contexts.
Digital Signature = Technical Purpose
- Uses cryptography to protect identity and data.
- Ensures tamper detection, strong authentication, and traceability.
In practical terms:
- An electronic signature validates intent
- A digital signature validates identity, integrity, and security
Why does this matter?
Digital signatures help prevent identity fraud and ensure documents remain unchanged. They are especially useful, and sometimes required, in:
- Government processes
- Healthcare workflows
- Banking and financial services
- Real estate and licensing agreements
- Any environment where documents may be challenged later
Electronic signature solutions based on digital signature technology
When an electronic signature solution is built on digital signature technology, it inherits several key advantages:
- Stronger integrity guarantees
- Cryptographically backed identity validation
- Greater evidentiary value in court
- A clear audit trail of the entire signing process
The more electronic evidence collected during signing, the stronger the signature becomes from a legal and technical standpoint.
Not all providers offering “electronic signatures” comply with the requirements of advanced or digital‑signature‑based solutions. Many only meet the criteria for simple electronic signatures, which do not offer the same guarantees.
Conclusion: digital signatures are a core part of advanced electronic signatures.
A digital signature is a foundational technology behind the advanced electronic signature (AES) but not behind the simple electronic signature (like clicking “Accept” or entering a PIN at an ATM).
A simple e‑signature cannot reliably link the signature to a specific individual and therefore does not qualify as a digital signature. In short:
- All digital signatures are electronic signatures,
- but not all electronic signatures are digital.
The optimal scenario is when both layers work together, as in Signaturit’s advanced electronic signature, providing:
- Legally binding evidence
- Traceability
- A secure, efficient, and compliant document‑signing workflow
Whatever kind of electronic or digital signature you need, Signaturit is on your side.
