What defines an electronic signature?

What defines an electronic signature?

• A. An electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to a document
• B. A physical signature scanned into a digital format
• C. A handwritten note converted into an electronic document
• D. A unique identification code for online transactions

Answer: (A)

An electronic signature is defined as an electronic sound, symbol, or process that is logically associated with a record and is used to verify the authenticity of a document. This definition encompasses various forms of electronic signatures, including clicks on a webpage to accept terms, stylized scripts created on touchscreens, or even an audio representation of a signature. The key characteristic is that it serves the same purpose as a traditional handwritten signature—indicating the signer's intent to agree to the contents of the document. The other choices do not meet the comprehensive definition of an electronic signature. A scanned physical signature, while it may represent someone's consent, does not constitute a true electronic signature, as it lacks the electronic process or connection to a document. Similarly, converting a handwritten note into an electronic format does not align with the concept of electronic signatures, as it does not involve a direct electronic process for signing. A unique identification code, while it may be used in online transactions, does not represent a person’s intent regarding a specific document or agreement, and thus cannot be considered an electronic signature.

An electronic signature is defined as an electronic sound, symbol, or process that is logically associated with a record and is used to verify the authenticity of a document. This definition encompasses various forms of electronic signatures, including clicks on a webpage to accept terms, stylized scripts created on touchscreens, or even an audio representation of a signature. The key characteristic is that it serves the same purpose as a traditional handwritten signature—indicating the signer's intent to agree to the contents of the document.

The other choices do not meet the comprehensive definition of an electronic signature. A scanned physical signature, while it may represent someone's consent, does not constitute a true electronic signature, as it lacks the electronic process or connection to a document. Similarly, converting a handwritten note into an electronic format does not align with the concept of electronic signatures, as it does not involve a direct electronic process for signing. A unique identification code, while it may be used in online transactions, does not represent a person’s intent regarding a specific document or agreement, and thus cannot be considered an electronic signature.