Forms of electronic signature
On the following links, I briefly look at what constitutes an electronic signature, and ask for more information and help with respect to PINs, and list a number of cases across the world.
One important point: the person relying on the signature (such as where you say you did not sign a cheque, and the bank has paid money out of your account on a cheque) must prove it was your signature where you dispute it was not your signature. This is the same for electronic signatures, although the vendors selling digital signatures try to reverse this rule.
For the sake of clarity, the term ‘electronic signature’ is used to denote the generic concept of a signature that is brought about by the use of a computer or computer-like device. For examples and case law across the world, see paragraph 10.4 of my book - Electronic Signatures in Law (3rd edition, Cambridge University Press, 2012)
The different forms of electronic signature comprise:
Typing a name into an electronic document
‘Click wrap’ method of indicating agreement
Personal identification number (PIN)
A manuscript signature that has been scanned
The digital biodynamic version of a manuscript signature
Manuscript signatures and fraud
I have recently been alerted to an example of manuscript signature and cheque fraud
