Electronic seal
An electronic seal is the electronic signature of an organization rather than a person; it proves the origin and integrity of data issued by a company or authority.
The eIDAS Regulation provides for electronic seals for legal persons. A qualified electronic seal enjoys the presumption of integrity of the data and correctness of their origin. In Switzerland, the Federal Act on Electronic Signatures provides for the regulated electronic seal for companies and authorities.
For agent evidence, the seal is a natural fit: a mandate or an agent passport is issued by an organization, not by an individual. A seal makes this origin legally tangible.
Example
A mandate service seals every mandate it issues with a qualified electronic seal. An authority receiving such a mandate can assume origin and integrity with a legal presumption.
How it differs
A qualified electronic signature belongs to a natural person and replaces her handwritten signature. A seal belongs to an organization and proves origin and integrity, not a person's declaration of intent.
In practice
- Seal evidence your organization issues if it must hold up in court or before authorities.
- Obtain seals from a recognized provider and provide its anchor to verifying parties.
- Distinguish deliberately between seals of the organization and signatures of people.
Role in KYA
KYA verifies signatures technically and reports the origin of the key. Whether it is a qualified seal follows from the certificate and the anchor of a recognized provider, which the verifying party provides.
Related check: Issuer (issuer_resolution). Is the key bound to the issuer – through a DID or because the verifying party trusts it?
Frequently asked questions
What is an electronic seal?
The electronic signature of an organization. It proves that data come from this organization and are unchanged.
What is the difference from a qualified electronic signature?
The signature belongs to a natural person and replaces her handwritten signature. The seal belongs to an organization and proves origin and integrity.
What effect does a qualified seal have?
Under eIDAS, it enjoys the presumption of integrity of the data and correctness of their origin. Switzerland provides for the regulated electronic seal.
Are seals suitable for agent mandates?
Yes. Mandates and agent passports are issued by organizations; a seal makes their origin legally tangible.
Does KYA verify whether a seal is qualified?
KYA verifies the signature and the origin of the key. Whether the seal is qualified follows from the recognized provider's certificate and anchor.
General information, not legal advice. The statutes and the circumstances of each case are decisive.