Definition: A cryptographic method used to verify the integrity and authenticity of digital data. A digital signature confirms that a document or message originates from a specific sender and has not been altered.
Key Features:
Authenticity: Confirms the identity of the sender.
Integrity: Indicates whether the data has been altered since signing.
Non-repudiation: A sender cannot deny having signed the message.
Popular Standards:
RSA: A widely-used algorithm for creating digital signatures.
PKI (Public Key Infrastructure): A system of certificates, public and private keys for managing digital signatures.
Applications: E-commerce, digital contracts, email security, software distribution, and many other areas where verification of digital data is required.