signature class
In the Signature Act(SigG), signatures are divided into signature classes; from simple to advanced to qualified. All signature classes are described in the Signature Act in § 2.
In the simple signature class, only data that is used for authentication and that is attached to other data is signed. This signature class includes the scanned signature or the electronic business card, such as the vCard.
The second signature class, the advanced electronic signature, is associated with the signature key holder and allows the signature key holder to be identified. A change in the data can be detected based on the logical links.
Qualified electronic signatures are the highest signature class. They are based on a qualified certificate and are generated using a secure signature unit. The qualified electronic signature ensures complete authenticity and confidentiality when documents are exchanged.