Different type of Digital Signature Certificate and its uses

The world is shifting to digital methods, likely replacing manual document handling with computerized systems. The Digital Signatures Certificate (DSC) will form the basis of something alike. Electronic reports need a digital signature to stay complete and intact. This serves as evidence in courts all over the country. In this article let us learn about what are the type of digital signature certificate.

Electronic documents must need a digital signature just like paper documents ask for a thumbprint or signature. The digital signature must be from the person involved rather than someone else. Around 50 developed and developing countries have implemented policies, acts, and e-signature laws.

What is a Digital Signature Certificate?

A Digital Signature Certificate is a legally recognized way to electronically sign documents. It is designed to recreate the security features of a handwritten signature on paper. A digital signature is used for verification of authentication. While a Digital Certificate acts as an identity of your document.

There are two typical calculations on the Digital Signature plot. One for marking and another for checking marks. Marking includes the client’s private key and checking includes the public key. When you complete the signature cycle, you get a digital signature.

Before getting a DSC, it is important to know about the type of digital signature certificates. DSC is an asymmetric cryptographic internet program to confirm the identity of a third party. There is a difference between digital signature and digital certificate.

Type of digital signature certificate

Mainly there are 3 type of digital signature certificates. They are

1. Signature DSC,
2. Encrypt DSC,
3. Sign and Encrypt DSC.

What is Signature DSC?

Signature DSC is used for signing certificates electronically. It is one of the main type of digital signature certificates. This tool can sign PDFs for tax returns, Goods and Service Tax (GST) filings, Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), and other online services. It makes sure the data is real and confirms who the user is. It provides authenticity and legal validity.

What is Encrypt DSC?

Encryption DSC secures confidential documents and files. It is another crucial type of digital signature certificate among 3. Companies upload their documents and encrypt them by using this DSC.

Usually, e-tender filing, e-commerce, etc. are the documents that are encrypted under encryption DSC. It also plays a vital role in sending personal data with certificates safely. Encrypt DSC is best for the business that handles delicate data.

What is Sign and Encrypt DSC (Combo DSC)?

Both signature and encryption can be done through this combo DSC. It is used to file documents, applications, and government forms. To use this combo DSC, it is necessary to have authentication and confidentiality of exchanged data. It has functionalities of both signature and encrypt DSC. This is one of the types of DSC which helps in both signing and securing documents.

What are the classes for the digital signature certificate?

There are 3 classes of DSC in total:

1. Class 1 DSC,
2. Class 2 DSC, and
3. Class 3 DSC.

Class 1 DSC:

Class 1 DSC is provided to private and individual people. This certificate confirms that the person’s online data matches what they provided in different databases. Here it is applicable to verify the name and email ID of the client. That is confirmed under the database of CA.

There are certain documents required for verification like,

• Biometric Aadhaar e KYC.
• Aadhaar e KYC OTP and Verification of video.
• Application form (Paper-based).
• Keeping the private key safe, can be done using software

Class 2 DSC:

Class 2 DSC is given to individuals and businesspeople. It checks email addresses and names. Investigates other information to confirm its accuracy using the CA dataset provided by the client.

The main purpose of the certificate is to confirm the identity of the person who signed it. Class 2 DSC confirms the referred information of the client. It is used for online enrollment and filing.

Here are more uses for Class 2 digital signature certificates.

• GST application.
• e-filing MCA.
• Income tax filing.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) registration.
• Form 16 etc.

Requirements for verification:

• Biometric Aadhaar.
• Verification of video and Aadhaar eKYC OTP.
• Application form (paper-based) etc.

Class 3 DSC:

Class 3 DSC can be obtained by different firms and associations. However, these statements are more significant for online business uses. According to the IVG rule, this certificate is the safest compared to class 2 DSC. It also is the most secure among all certificates. It is used for well-being and high-security issues.

Class 3 DSC is used for online business and exchange. Here both huge amounts of money and data are included. If you choose a Class 3 certificate, all apps designed for Class 2 should be able to recognize your certificates.

Elements of Class 3 DSC:

• Patent and trademark e-filing.
• E-bidding.
• Customs e-filing.
• E-procurement.
• MCA e-filing.

Requirements for verification:

• Aadhaar Biometric (eKYC).
• Relevant documents and application form.
• Aadhaar OTP and video verification.

What is the procedure for a Digital Signature Certificate?

Getting a digital signature certificate involves both offline and online methods. It is applicable for all 3 types of DSC.

Offline method:

Submitting the supporting documents and filling up the form is enough for the offline method.  Below are some required documents:                                                                              

• Permanent Account Number (PAN)
• Address and
• Identity Proof

Online method:

The process of obtaining DSC online is easy and time-saving. It takes only a few steps to apply for it.

• Step 1: First log in and then search for your entity. Find a trusted organization authorized to issue DSC.
• Step 2: Download the form and take a print. All the necessary information should be filled out on the form. Below are the required documents, carefully provide them.
  • Type of certificate
  • GST number and identity
  • Declaration
  • Class of DSC
  • Name of the applicants along with personal details
  • Identity proofs
  • Details of payment
  • With all these documents, applicants must attach their photo and signature.
• Step 3: After getting signed by an attesting officer they will send it to the address of the Local Registration Authority. Soon after verifying documents, the DSC will be issued to the applicant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a DSC is crucial for electronic document authentication. It ensures the integrity and legality of digitally signed documents. There are three main type of digital signature certificates. They are Signature DSC, Encrypt DSC, and Sign and Encrypt DSC. These certificates come in three classes; Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. The verification process varies for each class, including aadhaar verification and other documentation.

In the 3 main types of DSC, sign DSC is for signature purposes. Encryption DSC is for securing confidential data and documents. The last one is to both sign and encrypt DSC. This combo types of DSC is for combined functionalities.

Obtaining a DSC involves either an offline or an online method. The online method requires filling in a form with personal details. Identity proof and payment information are crucial. After verification and issuance by the Local Registration Authority DSC will be provided. Overall, DSCs serve as essential tools for ensuring authenticity. It secures electronic transactions and documents.

24efiling helps you obtain your DSC quickly and efficiently, saving your valuable time and effort.

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