Information Technology Act, 2000 provides legal framework for electronic governance by giving recognition to electronic records and digital signature. Often digital signature is considered as synonym of electronic signat

Digital Signature and Electronic Signature are not same as per the Information Technology Act, 2000. The differences between Electronic Signature and Digital Signature are as under: Basis of Distinction Electronic Signature Digital Signature Definition Section Section 2(1)(ta) 2(1)(p) Meaning An electronic signature is a digital form of a web link signature that is legally binding and secure Digital Signature is a secured signature that works with an electronic signature and relies on public key Purpose It is used for verifying a document. It is used for securing a document. Validation The validation of electronic signatures is not performed by any trusted certificate authorities or trust service providers. While the validation of digital signature is performed by trusted certificate authorities or trust service providers. Security It is vulnerable to tampering as there are fewer security features in electronic signatures. While it is highly secure as it comprised of more security features. Verification Electronic signatures cannot be verified. A digital signature can be verified. Types Verbal, electronic ticks, or scanned signatures are the common types of e-signatures. Types of digital signatures include Adobe and Microsoft. Utility It is simple to use, but it has a lesser level of evidential value. It is generally preferred because of more authenticity.