An electronic signature is any electronic indication of a person's intent to agree to the contents of a document. It can be as simple as a typed name in an email or as strong as a signature backed by a digital certificate and a verified identity. This guide explains what an electronic signature is, the main types and how they differ, how the law treats them around the world, and where organisations rely on them every day. The main types of electronic signature Not all electronic signatures carry the same legal weight. Assurance rises with the strength of the identity verification behind the signature, which is why frameworks recognise several tiers: Simple electronic signatures, such as a typed name, a tick box or a scanned image of a signature. Advanced electronic signatures, uniquely linked to the signer and able to detect any later change. Qualified electronic signatures, backed by a certificate from a trusted provider and carrying the highest legal assurance. Are electronic signatures legal? In most of the world, yes. Frameworks such as the EU's eIDAS Regulation, the United States' ESIGN Act and India's IT Act give electronic signatures clear legal effect, and many other countries across Asia, the Middle East and Africa have comparable laws. The right type depends on the transaction and its risk. Everyday internal approvals may need only a simple signature, while regulated, high-value or cross-border agreements call for advanced or qualified signatures that provide stronger proof of identity and intent. How an electronic signature proves trust Stronger electronic signatures rely on digital certificates and cryptography. When a document is signed, a cryptographic seal is applied that ties the signature to a verified identity and to the exact content at the moment of signing. If anyone alters the document afterwards, the seal breaks and verification fails, which is what makes these signatures tamper-evident and defensible in a dispute. Common use cases Organisations use electronic signatures across sales contracts, HR onboarding, financial account opening, procurement, healthcare consent and government services. In each case the gain is the same: faster completion, lower cost and a clear, tamper-evident record of who signed and when. Put electronic signatures to work eMudhra's emSigner makes legally valid electronic signing simple, secure and auditable. Ready to go paperless? Talk to an eMudhra expert. Tags: eSignature Platform About the Author eMudhra Limited eMudhra Editorial represents the collective voice of eMudhra, providing expert insights on the latest trends in digital security, cryptographic identities, and digital transformation. Our team of industry specialists curates and delivers thought-provoking content aimed at helping businesses navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and trust services with confidence.