Digital signature of contracts: how valid is it and what are its benefits?

The digital signature of contracts is a set of electronic data attached to a digital document for the purpose of identifying the signatory and showing his consent to the content of the document. There are several types of electronic signatureThere are several types of electronic signature: simple or basic, advanced and qualified. The latter is the most secure, since it involves signing the contract with a digital certificate.

We already know that it is possible to sign a contract with a digital signature, but what does this process consist of? In short, it is a method that allows you to sign remotely using digital certificates issued by certification authorities, ensuring the identity of the signatory and the authenticity of the document by means of cryptography. It is also a very valuable process in the digitization of your company’s processes.

In Spain, the digital signature of contracts has full legal validity under Regulation (EU) No. 910/2014, known as eIDAS, which equates it to a handwritten signature. Even so, for the validity of such a contract it is also important that the requirements set out in the Civil Code are met.

The process for digitally signing contracts is relatively simple. These are the most common steps:

• Choose the appropriate platform to sign a contract with digital signature and the type of signature to be used.
• Draw up and upload the contract to the platform. Select the place where you want to insert the digital signature.
• The employee receives the contract, fills in the different fields and signs from the computer or mobile device.
• Once signed, the system generates a code that ensures the authenticity of the document.
• The employee sends the document and it is received by the company.

In some cases, during the formalization of the contract it will be necessary to have a personal live guided consultation. If this is the case, it is ideal to do so in a virtual signing room. virtual signature room.

In order to electronically sign contracts using a digital certificate, it is necessary to comply with these three basic requirements:

1. To have a valid digital certificate, issued by an accredited certifying entity.
2. Access to a compatible device (computer, tablet or smartphone).
3. Internet connection to validate the signature through the corresponding platform.

The online digital signature process follows strict security protocols to guarantee the confidentiality and integrity of the contract. It is advisable to use an electronic signature software that has the highest certifications in security and data privacy, to avoid fraud or unauthorized access.

The adoption of digital signatures in contracts not only guarantees legal validity, but also provides other significant benefits for companies.

• Security. Digital signatures are backed by advanced cryptography, which ensures that contracts cannot be altered after they are signed.
• Speed. There is no need to wait for the parties to meet physically or to send documents by mail. For example, digital signatures on employment contracts are perfect for employees who work remotely.
• Effectiveness. The process is automated, reducing administrative time and errors.

Compared to handwritten signatures and other simpler forms of electronic signatures, digital signatures have several advantages:

• Cost savings and sustainability. There is no need to print, scan or send physical documents.
• Traceability. Each time a document is digitally signed, a detailed record of who signed, when and how is generated.

Digital signatures are revolutionizing the way in which employment contracts, agreements and confidentiality agreements are managed. In addition, its use has been extended to other areas such as the contracting of services, commercial agreements and purchase and sale processes, offering greater flexibility and security in these procedures. A clear example where we have seen its relevance in the last few years is in digital digital contracting through electronic signatures in the insurance sector, which has streamlined the formalizationwhich has speeded up the formalization of policies.

Although digital signatures offer great benefits, it is important to take into account some challenges, such as the fact that not all people have access or knowledge to use digital certificates. In addition, it is crucial to protect certificates and private keys to avoid their misuse.

The digital signature of contracts has established itself as a fundamental tool in today’s business environment. If you are looking for a secure, efficient and legally valid method to manage contracts, the digital signature is an excellent option.

Do you need to optimize your contract signing processes? Our electronic signature software is the ideal solution for your company. Developed with our own technology, it offers full traceability in each transaction and is highly configurable to adapt to your needs. It supports all types of electronic signatures (simple, advanced and qualified) and allows you to sign several documents at the same time and add additional files. It also supports the participation of multiple signers in the same process and is compatible with various devices.

You can verify the validity of a digital signature using a digital certificate reader or through platforms that offer this functionality.

The digital signature is mandatory for certain online administrative procedures (for example, at the Tax Agency) and for legal entities.

The digital signature is an advanced form of electronic signature, which uses digital certificates to guarantee the identity of the signatory and the integrity of the document.

Yes, it is possible to digitally sign contracts securely, provided you use qualified platforms and digital certificates issued by accredited entities and, when required, you have completed the mandatory KYC process.