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Digital Signature Certificate

More transactional security on your hand

About digital signature certificate

In India, a digital signature certificate (DSC) is an electronic form of signature that is used to sign and authenticate electronic documents and transactions. It is issued by certifying authorities (CA) that are authorized by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Things to know about Digital Signature Certificate

Types of DSC: There are three types of DSCs – Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Class 1 DSC is used for securing email communications and other basic purposes, whereas at present Class 3 DSC is used for company registration, filing tax returns, and other purposes. Whereas, depending on the security level, a digital signature can be classified further as Class 3 Signing, Class 3 Encryption and Class 3 Signing + Encryption. Higher Class 3 variants are used for higher security reasons in different portals.

Application process: To obtain a DSC, an individual or organization must first apply to a certifying authority and submit the required documents, such as proof of identity and address. The CA will then verify the documents and issue the DSC to the applicant.

Validity: A DSC is valid for a certain period, typically one or two years, after which it needs to be renewed.

Legal validity: In India, a digital signature has the same legal validity as a handwritten signature, as long as it is issued by a certifying authority that is authorized by the CCA.

Uses: A DSC is used for a variety of purposes, such as e-filing of income tax returns, online company registration, e-tendering, and online banking transactions.

Security features: A DSC uses encryption and decryption technology to secure electronic documents and transactions. It ensures that the document or transaction cannot be tampered with, and provides authentication of the sender.

Benefits of having Digital Signature Certificate

Increased security: Digital signatures provide a high level of security by verifying the identity of the signer, ensuring the integrity of the document, and providing non-repudiation. This makes it difficult for fraudsters to impersonate someone else or tamper with the document.

Improved efficiency: Digital signatures eliminate the need for physical signatures and the associated time, cost, and logistical challenges. Digital signatures can be applied quickly and easily, saving time and increasing productivity.

Cost-effective: Digital signatures save costs associated with printing, mailing, and storing paper documents. It also eliminates the need for physical storage space.

Convenient: Digital signatures can be signed from anywhere in the world, at any time, on any device with internet access. This makes it easier for businesses to collaborate with partners and customers, regardless of their location.

Eco-friendly: Digital signatures eliminate paper waste and reduce the carbon footprint of businesses, which is better for the environment.

Legal compliance: Digital signatures are legally binding in most countries and recognized by government agencies and regulatory bodies. This makes it easier for businesses to comply with legal requirements and regulations.

What class & variant of DSC should I buy?

What class & variant of DSC should I buy?

DSC is now sold in only one class : Class-3. There will be no more Class-2 sold in 2021 as per CCA guidelines. Class-3 DSC is sufficient to sign documents for a large variety of purposes – including tax returns (Income Tax /GST), invoice signing (Tally or PDF), completing Director’s KYC, register new business firm on MCA Portal(ROC), applying Import Export Code (IEC), EPF Portal, etc. Some Tender Portals require vendors to use Class-3 Digital Signature with encryption combo. Apart from that It is used for e-bidding, e-auction, e-ticketing, trademark & patent registrations, ice gate, central board of excise etc.

DSC for Organizations

Tender portals in India accept Class-3 Digital Signature to submit bids online. The type of applicant can be sole-proprietor, partnership firm, LLP, registered company, or trusts. Authorized signatory for the organization must give permission for the issue of Class-3 Digital Signature to their staff. Applicants have option to buy only Signature, or Combo. The combo includes both Signature and Encryption. Check with Tender Inviting Authority if you need Combo.

Uses of DGFT Certificates (Must have IEC): Exporters & Importers enrolled with DGFT and DGFT Portal

We always recommend to contact us to help you choose your DSC, best suited for you

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