DIGITAL SIGNATURE Meaning and
Definition
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A digital signature refers to a cryptographic mechanism used to authenticate the integrity and authenticity of a digital document, data, or transaction. It is a digital equivalent of a handwritten signature or a stamped seal on a physical document.
A digital signature is created using a specific algorithm that generates a unique digital fingerprint, or hash, of the document. This hash is then encrypted using the signer's private key, creating a digital signature. The digital signature is typically attached or embedded within the document itself or in a separate signature file.
To verify the authenticity and integrity of a digitally signed document, the digital signature must be decrypted using the signer's public key. Once decrypted, the receiver calculates the hash of the received document and compares it with the decrypted digital signature. If the calculated hash matches the decrypted digital signature, it attests to the document's integrity and assures the identity of the signer.
Digital signatures provide several key benefits, including non-repudiation, meaning the signer cannot deny their involvement in the document. They also ensure the document has not been altered since the signature was applied, providing assurance of integrity. Additionally, digital signatures can be verified by anyone with access to the signer's public key, making it an effective way to establish trust and secure online transactions, contracts, and legal agreements.
Common Misspellings for DIGITAL SIGNATURE
- sigital signature
- xigital signature
- cigital signature
- figital signature
- rigital signature
- eigital signature
- dugital signature
- djgital signature
- dkgital signature
- dogital signature
- d9gital signature
- d8gital signature
- difital signature
- divital signature
- dibital signature
- dihital signature
- diyital signature
- ditital signature
- digutal signature
- digjtal signature
Etymology of DIGITAL SIGNATURE
The word "digital" comes from the Latin word "digitus", meaning "finger" or "toe". It refers to numerical representation or manipulation of data using discrete digits or symbols.
The term "signature" has its roots in the Latin word "signare", meaning "to mark" or "to sign". It signifies a recognizable mark or pattern that indicates authenticity, approval, or authorization.
Thus, the term "digital signature" combines these two roots. It refers to a cryptographic process or technique that uses mathematical algorithms to create a unique electronic representation of a person's identity or authorization. This electronic representation serves as a digital equivalent of a handwritten signature and provides authenticity and integrity for electronic documents or messages.
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