This study examines the advantages and possibilities for the use of digital signatures to carry out electronic transactions. It focuses on developing and transition countries that have not fully implemented the use of digital signatures in their economic, commercial and productive processes. An important aim of this research is to create awareness on the likely effects for enforcing the use of...
Broadly speaking, digital signatures are linked to the authentication of individuals on the Internet, which affects many aspects of the Internet, including jurisdiction, cybercrime, and e-commerce. The use of digital signatures should contribute to building trust on the Internet.
Digital authentication in general is part of the e-commerce framework. It should facilitate e-commerce transactions through the conclusion of e-contracts. For
example, is an agreement valid and binding if it is completed via e-mail or through a website? In many countries, the law requires that contracts must be ‘in writing’ or ‘signed’. What does this mean in terms of the Internet? Faced with these dilemmas and pressured to establish an e-commerce enabling environment, many governments have started adopting legislation on digital signatures.