E signature technology speed up many documentation workflows, decreasing delays in the process of reviewing and saving money on postage, paper and faxing. It also reduces the time required to distribute documents to signers and makes it easier to sign documents remotely.

A simple electronic signature is a digital image of a typed or handwritten name. Electronic signatures of this kind do not have encryption or authentication functions or authenticate the signature of the signer. A more advanced eSignature uses verification technology to create an encrypted hash of signature data and links it to a public key that is associated with the signature's electronic identification. The recipient is able to decrypt the hash and match it with the public key to ensure that the document has not been altered in any way since it was signed.

An agency can use additional verification methods to improve the security of eSignatures, including passwords, two-factor authentication and biometrics. These more sophisticated types of eSignatures are employed in cases where there is a greater chance that the validity of the signature is challenged.

Agencies should give special consideration to long-term, electronically-signed records that preserve legal rights. These records could require is McAfee livesafe any good a longer software cycle, and it is crucial to ensure the integrity of a record during any migration or upgrading processes. The guidance provided by NARA for scheduling records can assist agencies in determining the appropriate timeframe for archiving these records.