ELECTRONIC GOVERNANCECentral

Section 10 of The Information Technology Act, 2000

10. Power to make rules by Central Government in respect of 1 [electronic signature].--The Central Government may, for the purposes of this Act, by rules, prescribe--

(a)the type of 1 [electronic signature];
(b)the manner and format in which the 1 [electronic signature] shall be affixed;
(c)the manner or procedure which facilitates identification of the person affixing the 1 [electronic signature];
(d)control processes and procedures to ensure adequate integrity, security and confidentiality of electronic records or payments; and
(e)any other matter which is necessary to give legal effect to 1 [electronic signatures].

Summary

The Central Government has the power to make rules regarding electronic signatures.
These rules define the specific types of electronic signatures that are allowed.
Rules can specify the format and manner in which signatures must be attached.
The rules help in identifying the person who is signing the electronic record.
The government sets procedures to ensure the security and privacy of electronic records.

Practical examples

1On May 10, 2024, the Ministry of Electronics sets a new rule that only biometric-linked signatures can be used for high-value government tenders to prevent fraud.

2The government issues a guideline stating that all digital signatures used for tax filings must follow a specific 256-bit encryption format to be legally valid.

FAQ

1. Who has the authority to decide which digital signatures are legal?

The Central Government holds the power to make rules for this purpose under the Act.

2. Can the government change the way a signature is attached?

Yes, they can make rules about the specific manner and format used for attaching signatures to records.

3. What is the main purpose of these signature rules?

They aim to ensure the integrity, security, and confidentiality of electronic records and payments.

Test yourself

Q1.Under Section 10 of The Information Technology Act, 2000, which authority is empowered to make rules for electronic signatures?

Q2.According to Section 10 of The Information Technology Act, 2000, rules may be made to facilitate what specific aspect of a signer?

Q3.Under Section 10 of The Information Technology Act, 2000, the government can create rules to ensure the integrity of what?

Q4.According to Section 10 of The Information Technology Act, 2000, what can the government specify regarding the manner of signatures?

9PreviousSection 9 Sections 6, 7 and 8 not to confer right to insist document should be accepted in electronic form.10ANextSection 10A Validity of contracts formed through electronic means.

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