An electronic signature is any electronic means which indicates that a person adopts the contents of an electronic message. It can be defined as an electronic symbol (e.g. graphic in JPEG file), sound (e.g. audio files) or process (e.g. a procedure that coveys assent) logically associated with or attached to a record, and executed by a person with the intent to sign the record. An electronic signature is very easy to implement. Consequently, e-signatures are very problematic when considered to maintaining security and integrity. There is nothing to prevent an individual from typing the name of another individual. Due to this, an electronic signature does not integrate additional measures of security that are considered as an insecure way of signing documentation.

When we refer to electronic signature from the security point of view, United States have Electronic Signatures Acts such as Uniform Electronic Transactions Act and Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act.

Uniform Electronic Transactions Act

In the United States, the concept of electronic signature is wide and set out in Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). UETA was proposed by National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State laws. According to this act, electronic signature means an electronic symbol, sound or process logically related to a record and executed by a person with the intent to sign the record. This act only applies to commercial, business and government matters.

Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act

Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act is a United States law which lays out the guidelines for interstate commerce. The law was enacted to facilitate the usage of electronic signatures and records in interstate as well as foreign commerce ensuring the legal effect and validity of contract entered into electronically. The general intent of the act is that a signature or contract may not be denied validity, legal effect or enforceability solely because it is in the electronic form.

Thus, the main purpose of electronic laws is to define the principles for the legal as well as technical aspects and application of electronic signatures. According to the electronic signature laws, a person who generates electronic certificates, or copy or falsify electronic signatures as in valid, generates unauthorized electronic certificates or knowingly uses them can be sentenced from 2 to 5 years or can be fined.