Distinguishing between digital signatures and electronic signatures

13/05/2026

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Nowadays, digital signatures and electronic signatures are widely used. However, since this type of signature is still relatively new, many people still confuse these two concepts. So, what exactly are these two types of signatures? Are they the same? Let’s find out more through the information shared by 1Office below!

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What is the nature of a digital signature?
Digital signatures are created using public-key cryptography – RSA. Specifically:
What is the difference between digital signatures and electronic signatures?
How are digital and electronic signatures applied?
- Applications of digital signatures
  - In e-government
  - In e-commerce
Applications of electronic signatures

What is the nature of a digital signature?

Digital signatures are created using public-key cryptography – RSA. Specifically:

RSA Technology	Public key encryption technology Each unit = 1 key pair 1 key pair = public key + private key
Public key (public key)	Belongs to the asymmetric encryption system Used to verify digital signatures
Private key (private key)	Belongs to the asymmetric encryption system Used to create digital signatures
Signer	Is a subscriber, associated with their name Uses their private key to digitally sign a data message
Recipient	An organization or individual Receives the data message digitally signed by the signer Uses the signer’s digital certificate to verify the digital signature on the received data message, then proceeds with related activities and transactions.
Digital Signing	Entering the private key into a software application Automatically creates and attaches the digital signature to the data message.

What is the difference between digital signatures and electronic signatures?

These are two types of signatures that are quite popular today. However, many businesses confuse them and think they are the same. In fact, please see the comparison below to clearly distinguish the purpose and usage of these two types of signatures.

	Digital Signature	Electronic Signature
Definition	Digital signature A type of electronic signature Similar to a handwritten signature or fingerprint for an individual. Similar to a company seal for a business. Used to confirm the commitment of the organization or individual in the document they have signed in the digital environment.	Electronic signature A form of signature attached to data such as text, images, or videos The main purpose of an electronic signature is to identify the owner of that data.
Legal Validity	Legally valid when the following conditions are met: Created while the digital certificate is valid and can be verified using the public key on the certificate Created using the private key corresponding to the public key on the digital certificate issued by legally authorized organizations.	Legally valid when the following conditions are met: The signer can be verified, and it demonstrates the signer’s approval of the data message’s content Ensures sufficient security and prevents forgery when creating the electronic signature
Features	Document security	Verification for data and documents
Authentication Mechanism	Based on a certificate-based digital ID	Verifies subscriber identity via email, phone PIN, etc.
Security	High security	Signature can be easily forged

How are digital and electronic signatures applied?

Applications of digital signatures

In e-government

Electronic customs and tax declarations
Birth and death registration
Issuing various types of documents and certificates
Permit application systems: publishing, construction, healthcare, education…

In e-commerce

Authenticating the identity of transaction participants, verifying the security of online electronic transactions.
Verifying the integrity of contracts, documents…
Authentication applications in Internet banking
Authentication applications in stock trading
Authentication applications in online purchasing and bidding

Applications of electronic signatures

Electronic signatures can be used in email transactions, for online shopping, online stock investment, bank transfers, and online payments without the fear of money being stolen as with Visa or Master accounts.

Applications by the Ministry of Finance
Applications by the Ministry of Industry and Trade
Applications by the Ministry of Science and Technology, etc.
Online purchasing and ordering
Online payments, etc.
Email transactions
Video conferencing and remote work

Digital signatures and electronic signatures have almost completely changed business paperwork procedures. This will certainly be the signing method of the near future. 1Office is one of the leading providers of integrated digital signature features within operational workflows, helping businesses optimize costs and work efficiency. This is a solution that helps optimize sustainable efficiency for businesses. To receive detailed consultation on the application of digital signatures in your business, you can leave your registration information right here:

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See more: Why is it necessary to integrate digital signatures into your business’s operational workflow?