Contracts and documents can now be signed digitally using services like Addo Sign. This is convenient, but how reliable is it? How do you ensure the right person is signing? Electronic identification provides far greater certainty than traditional paper-based processes.
Introduction
This article explains how digital signing creates a simpler and more secure way to handle contracts and documents. We cover why electronic identification matters, how it verifies the signer’s identity, and when to use simple versus strong identification. You will also learn how both methods can be used locally and globally.
Electronic identification: the key to secure digital transactions
Electronic identification is essential for digital transactions. It ensures that a person can securely prove their identity before accessing or signing documents.
Authentication confirms that a claimed identity is genuine. This protects the integrity of digital transactions and enables trusted electronic communication.
Customers value smooth and efficient processes. Studies show that customer experience improves when services are simple and reliable. Complex or outdated workflows can damage trust and slow down business.
Modern identification methods make it possible to replace manual and paper-based steps with secure digital flows.
Security with strong identification
Many contracts require verified identity. Traditionally, this meant in-person meetings or witnessed signatures. Postal mail and unsecured email also carry risks.
Strong identification offers a legally binding and secure alternative. It links the signature to an official identity verified by a trusted provider.
Examples include MitID and BankID.
When to use strong identification
Strong identification is recommended when parties do not know each other or when legal certainty is critical. It provides a level of assurance similar to showing a passport or driver’s licence.
Strong authentication is supported by banking and national ID systems in the Nordics. For cross-border signing in Europe, eIDAS enables trusted identification using national digital IDs.
Signing globally with simple identification
Not every signing requires strong identification. For low-risk situations, simple identification can be enough.
This method is useful when parties already know each other or when signing happens internally. It allows fast and easy signing from anywhere in the world.
Simple vs. strong authentication
The main difference lies in how identity is verified.
- Strong authentication: login with a national eID such as MitID or BankID.
- Simple identification: signing via link, optional password, and on-screen signature.
Both methods are legally binding in many jurisdictions when used correctly.
Using both methods in Addo Sign
Addo Sign supports both simple and strong identification. You can choose the method per signer and per document.
Digital signatures are supported by EU regulation. They rely on three principles:
- Authenticity of the signer
- Integrity of the document
- Verifiability afterwards
This ensures that a signed document can be trusted and validated, often more reliably than paper.
