Classes of Digital Signature Certificates

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A Digital Signature Certificate is the digital equivalent of any physical or paper certificate. The Digital Signature Certificate can be used to give proof of one’s identity and sign documents electronically. Another area where the Digital Signature Certificates come in handy is when accessing information or services on the internet. The secure digital key certifies the identity of the holder and is issued by the Certifying Authority. There is basic information about the user in the Digital Signature Certificate, for instance, his name, pin code, country, and email address.

There are different types of Digital Signature Certificates available, each one with its own uses and formats. They are as follows:

Sign: This is the most basic form of Digital Signature Certificates. It is used to sign digital files such as PDF formats of the Tax Returns, MCA, and other websites.

Encrypt: This type of Digital Signature Certificate is used to help the company or the individual encrypt the documents before they are uploaded on the internet. It is popularly used to send classified information.

Sign and Encrypt: This type of Digital Signature Certificate is used to perform the functions of both the above categories.

Typically, a Digital Signature Certificate holds a validity of up to three years. This is controlled by the law, which states that one cannot buy a Digital Signature Certificate with less than one year of validity or with more than three years of validity.

Classes of Digital Signature Certificates

Just as there are three forms of Digital Signature Certificates, there are also three classes of the DSC. Each one has its own purposes and is meant for a different type of applicant.

Class 1: This type of Digital Signature Certificate is issued to individuals or private subscribers. The basic functionality of this class of Digital Signature Certificate is to confirm the name and the email address of the applicant, which lie within the database of the Certifying Authority.

Class 2: This class of Digital Signature Certificate is issued to the directors or the signing authorities of the companies. The purpose of this class of Digital Signature Certificate is for the e-filing with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).

Class 3: This class of Digital Signature Certificate is issued to the people or associations who are participating in online bidding or auctions. This Digital Signature Certificate is also meant for the online tenders for any project in India.