Overview
In digital signing via Stiply, authentication plays a crucial role. Thanks to the eIDAS regulation, identity and document integrity can be verified electronically.
1. What is authentication?
Authentication is an electronic process used to confirm the identity of a person or organization and to ensure the origin and integrity of the signed data. It is a fundamental element of a legally valid digital signature under EU law.
2. Levels of assurance
According to the European eIDAS regulation, three levels of assurance are defined based on the strength of the identity verification:
- Low
- Substantial
- High
The more robust the identity check, the higher the assurance level and legal validity of the digital signature.
3. Proof document
After signing, the sender receives a proof document by email. This document includes full details about the authentication method used, making it clear who signed the document and how they were verified.
4. Authentication methods in Stiply
Stiply offers several authentication methods. You can select the most appropriate method per signer, based on the sensitivity or legal nature of the document:
- Email: suitable for a Simple Electronic Signature (SES).
- SMS: also SES, but with added security via SMS code.
- Direct Debit Authorization: used for an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES), ideal for financial documents.
- iDIN: AES level, with high assurance based on bank authentication.
Choose lighter authentication (email or SMS) for general documents, and stronger options (direct debit or iDIN) for contracts, financial data, or sensitive agreements.
5. When to use which method?
- Use SES (Email or SMS) for routine agreements, internal approvals, or informal documents.
- Use AES (Direct Debit Authorization or iDIN) for legally binding contracts, financial agreements, or high-risk documents.
Important Notes
- The chosen authentication method determines the legal assurance level of your digital signature.
- The proof document serves as legal evidence of identity and consent.
- Set the authentication method per signer to ensure proper security and compliance.