• A digital signature consists of a “hashed” number combined with a number assigned to a document (a private-encryption key). Generating a signature requires the use of private- and public-key-encryption software, and is often activated by a simple command or act, such as clicking on a “place order” icon on a retailer’s website. Digital signatures are esp. important for electronic commerce and are a key component of many electronic message-authentication schemes. Several states have passed legislation recognizing the legality of digital signatures. See E-COMMERCE; KEY ENCRYPTION. [Cases: Signatures 2. C.J.S. Signatures § 14.]
digital signature
A secure, digital code attached to an electronically transmitted message that uniquely identifies and authenticates the sender.
