UPSC Prelims 2019 Question:

Consider the following statements

A digital signature is 

1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it
   
   
2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or serve on Internet 3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged 
   
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation: 

• The Information Technology Act, 2000 has provisions for use of Digital Signatures. These signatures are produced on the documents which are submitted in electronic form. The Digital signature is not used for record purpose rather it is used to ensure the security and authenticity of the documents filed electronically. So, statement 1 is not correct.
  
  
• The Digital Signature is an electronic record which identifies the certifying authority issuing digital certificates. This signature is not used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual. So, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  
• A digital signature is an electronic, encrypted, stamp of authentication on digital information such as email messages, electronic documents. A signature confirms that the information originated from the signer and has not been altered. So, statement 3 is correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

Subject: Science & Technology | Recent Developments