This guide will explore the three top Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) types available in India. Whether you need a basic email signing capability or require high-security e-filing, we’ll help you determine which DSC best fits your specific needs. Get prepared to sign your documents electronically with peace of mind and confidence!
Introduction:
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a safe and legally accepted electronic version of a regular signature. It works like a digital version of a handwritten signature and is used to confirm the identity of people or organizations in the digital space. DSC guarantees the genuineness and truthfulness of electronic files and dealings, offering a strong level of security and confidence in the online world.
Key Features of Digital Signature Certificate:
Identity Verification:
DSC is issued by Certification Authorities (CAs) after rigorous verification of the applicant’s identity. It acts as a reliable proof of identity in digital transactions, assuring the recipient of the authenticity of the signer.
Encryption and Decryption:
DSC enables secure encryption and decryption of electronic data. This ensures that the content remains confidential and can only be accessed by the intended recipient with the corresponding private key.
Data Integrity:
Any alteration or tampering of digitally signed documents can be detected immediately, as the digital signature becomes invalid after any alteration. It ensures data integrity and prevents unauthorized changes.
Non-repudiation:
DSC provides non-repudiation, meaning the signer cannot deny their involvement in a transaction or document once digitally signed. This feature adds a layer of accountability and reliability to electronic transactions.
Legal validity:
In many countries, including India, a digitally signed document has the same validity as a physically signed document. It is admissible as evidence in courts and government agencies.
Types of Digital Signature Certificates:
Class 3 DSC
A Class 3 DSC is a type of digital certificate that provides the highest level of assurance or trust within the hierarchy of Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) in India. It is mainly used for e-procurement, e-tendering, and other high-security applications
A Class 3 DSC can be of two types: Signature only or Combo (Signature and Encryption) Here are some key points about the certificate types:
Signature Only Certificate
A Class 3 Signature Only Certificate is used for signing documents electronically
It is legally valid and can be issued in the name of individuals as well as organizations
Uses
- e-filing on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal
- GST filling on the GST portal
- Patent and Trademark e-filing
- IEC Registration on the DGFT portal
- AD Code Registration on the ICEGATE portal
- Customs e-filing
Combo Certificate
The Combo DSC includes both a signing certificate and an encryption certificate.
It is the highest level of certificate in India and provides the highest level of security.
The signing certificate is used for digitally signing documents, while the encryption certificate is used for encrypting sensitive information.
It is legally valid and can be issued in the name of individuals as well as organizations
It meets the highest standards of authenticity and integrity.
Government agencies and organizations widely accept it.
Uses
- e-Procurement,
- e-Tendering, and other
- e-Auction
- High-Security applications
Legal Validity:
Class 3 DSCs are legally valid and can be issued in the name of individuals as well as organizations.
Documents for Class 3 DSC:
To obtain a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), the following documents are generally required:
Filled out the Application Form
Letter of Authorization provided by the Organization (for organizations)
Identification Proof (Any one of the below):
- Government-issued ID such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card
- PAN Card
- Aadhar Card
Address Proof (Any one of the below):
- Utility Bill (not older than 3 months)
- Bank Statement (not older than 3 months)
- Aadhar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Passport
It is important to note that the specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the provider and the Certifying Authority. It is advisable to refer to the official website of the chosen provider for detailed instructions and guidance during the application process. The certificate can be obtained for individuals as well as organizations, and the validity can range from one to three years
DGFT Class 2 DSC:
A DGFT Digital Signature DSC is a type of Digital Signature Certificate that is specifically used for e-filing in DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) applications
Here are some key points about DGFT Digital Signature DSC:
DGFT DSC is an essential digital contrivance for performing online transactions and registering organizations at the portal
The DGFT Class DSC is issued only to organizations with the presence of a signing certificate
The IEC (Importer Exporter Code) is mandatory to obtain a DGFT Digital Signature certificate
The DGFT Digital Signature certificate authenticates the identity of the user electronically and is used in import-export transactions on the DGFT website
To obtain a DGFT Class DSC, organizations can apply for it through authorized providers such as Capricorn CA or eMudhra, Vsign, Pantasign DSC
The process typically involves registering with a Certifying Authority and providing the necessary documentation for identity verification
Once registered, the DGFT Digital Signature DSC can be used for e-filing in DGFT applications and conducting secure online transactions.
Documents required for DGFT DSC:
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card
- Proof of Residence
- Photo
- Importer Exporter Code Copy
- Certificate of Incorporation/Business (for organizations)
- In addition to these documents, you may also need to provide an authorization letter and identity proof (such as a passport or driver’s license) and address proof (such as a utility bill or bank statement)
It is important to note that the specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the provider and the Certifying Authority. It is advisable to refer to the official website of the chosen provider for detailed instructions and guidance during the application process
USB Token:
In India mostly used Tokens like Hyper PKI ePass 2003 Token and Watchdata Proxkey Token.
| Feature | Hyper PKI ePass 2003 Token | Watchdata Proxkey |
| Security | FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified | FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified, with fingerprint authentication |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Cost | Typically less expensive | Typically more expensive |
| Ease of use | Relatively easy to use | Easy to use, requires a software client |
Conclusion:
There are two types of digital certificates: Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and DGFT Class 2 DSC. Each serves different purposes. Class 3 DSC is the most secure and is used for high-security matters like e-tendering, patent and trademark e-filing, MCA e-filing, customs e-filing, and e-procurement. On the other hand, DGFT Class 2 DSC is specifically for e-filing in DGFT applications. Both types need identity verification and required documents for getting the certificate. Knowing that the DSC should come from a Certifying Authority approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) in India is crucial.
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