QES requires identification
In accordance with European law (eIDAS Regulation) and Swiss law (ZertES) there are different types of signatures including the qualified electronic signature. This type of signature is required for contracts that must fulfil the written form requirement. The qualified electronic signature, also known as QES, requires the signatory to be identified before signing. This identification is carried out with the help of a certified Trust Service Provider. The latter issues an electronic certificate in the name of the signatory.
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Qualified electronic signature explained
In principle, declarations of intent are subject to freedom of form. This means that they can be made verbally, in writing, electronically or implied. For some documents, however, the legislator requires the written form. This can be done using a traditional signature on paper or a qualified electronic signature.There are certain requirements for the QES, including the identification of the signatory before signing. The qualified electronic signature is issued by a certified trust service provider.
Swisscom: Largest telecommunications company in Switzerland
As Switzerland’s largest telecommunications company, Swisscom has built up a strong presence in Switzerland and abroad. Swisscom is known for its first-class network, which covers the whole of Switzerland. The company offers a wide range of products and services and has been one of the leading trust service providers for many years.Qualified signature process with Swisscom
With inSign, customers benefit from an integrated QES process. Identification and electronic signature run seamlessly in a digital process. No additional contract with a third-party provider (Trust Service Provider) is necessary.
This is how the QES process typically works:
1. Select signature type QES
The document is prepared by the process creator in inSign and filled with the necessary signature fields. The signature level “QES” is defined in the signature field. The process is then transferred to the signatory (e.g. by email with two-factor authentication).2. Signatory identification
The signatory opens the document, clicks on the signature field, enters their mobile phone number and identifies themselves, for example via Video-Ident or Auto-Ident. The identification only needs to be carried out once and can be used for signatures in the future.
3. Sign with QES
The signatory receives a TAN by SMS or alternatively uses the Mobile ID App. This triggers the qualified signature on the document.4. Completion of signature process
The signature process ends in the inSign portal. In addition to the technical signature, the signature is also visually represented in the document (see image). The process creator receives a notification of the signature. All persons involved receive a copy for archiving.
Sustainability
inSign aims to digitise business processes and make them more sustainable. With inSign you save valuable resources. Swisscom is also committed to the goal of offering sustainable and environmentally friendly telecommunications solutions. The company is actively committed to protecting the environment by reducing its energy consumption, using renewable energies and introducing recycling programmes. Swisscom contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions and is committed to responsible corporate governance.You too can make a valuable contribution and make your processes more sustainable. Even if the QES process appears complicated at first glance, this is not the case once you have tried it out and realised the many advantages.
Conclusion
According to eIDAS and ZertES, there are different types of signatures. One of these is the qualified electronic signature. It is required if the legislator prescribes the written form. inSign supports advanced and qualified electronic signatures. InSign has various cooperation partners for qualified electronic signatures – now including Swisscom. Please send us a message if you are interested.
About the author
Ursula Korotwitschka – Marketing Specialist
Ursula has been working for many years on all aspects of electronic signatures and how smart software can make everyday work easier.
