The commercial property market has increasingly embraced digital solutions to streamline processes, and eSigning is now frequently used in property transactions. But with the convenience of eSignatures comes the question: How secure are these digital agreements? Here, we explore the security features that make eSignatures a reliable and trustworthy solution for property professionals.

1. Encryption: Safeguarding Data from End to End

When a document is signed electronically, it is encrypted, meaning the information is converted into a form that is unreadable to unauthorised parties. It can only be accessed by someone with a decryption key.

2. Identity Verification: Confirming Signatory Authenticity

eSignature platforms incorporate multiple identity verification methods to confirm the authenticity of signatories. This may include:

• Email or SMS verification: A secure link is sent to the user’s registered contact information.
• Knowledge-based authentication (KBA): Users must answer personal or property-related questions.
• Biometric verification: Some systems use fingerprint recognition or facial ID for an additional layer of security.

 

For property agreements, where large sums of money are involved, robust identity checks reduce the risk of fraudulent activity.

3. Audit Trails: Tracking Every Step of the Process

A digital audit trail is automatically generated during the eSigning process. This trail records each step and key information throughout the signing, including:

• The date and time of document access and signature
• The IP address of the signer
• Any changes made to the document

 

This level of transparency helps resolve disputes and ensures compliance with legal requirements, such as those set out by HM Land Registry for electronically signed deeds.

4. Compliance with Legal Standards

In the UK, eSignatures are legally recognised under the Electronic Communications Act 2000 and the UK eIDAS Regulation. HM Land Registry also accepts electronically signed deeds, provided the process meets specific security standards, including witness validation and multi-factor (giving more information than just a password) authentication (MFA’s).

5. Tamper-Evident Technology: Detecting Unauthorised Changes

eSignature platforms use tamper-evident technology to protect document integrity. If an unauthorised attempt is made to alter a signed document, the system flags the change (even if it is something as simple as amending a capital letter in a word), providing clear evidence of potential tampering

Conclusion: A Secure Future for Property Transactions

As the property sector continues its digital transformation, eSignatures offer a secure, efficient, and legally recognised way to manage agreements. With advanced encryption, identity verification, and tamper-proof technology, property professionals can embrace digital documentation with confidence.

For more insights into how technology is shaping the commercial property market, visit the NovaLoca blog.

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