A digital certificate functions as a unique identification card for your computer, ensuring the security of your online data. It verifies your identity and establishes trustworthiness when transmitting crucial documents or messages through the internet. Additionally, it employs an exclusive code that only you and the intended recipient can decipher, guaranteeing confidentiality. Consider it as a clandestine handshake shared exclusively between you and your trusted companion!
A digital certificate is a computer-based record that contains information about the certifying authority and the subscriber who received a digital signature for electronically transmitted documents. It includes the person’s public key for decrypting the digital signature. When you visit a website with a digital certificate, your browser will verify that the certificate was issued by a trusted authority and that the website is legitimate. This ensures the security of your personal information, such as credit card numbers. Subscribers register with certification authorities to obtain digital signatures. Certificates may also include additional information like issuance and expiration dates, as well as recommended reliance limits for transactions using the certificate. When attached to an electronic document, the certificate also acts as an electronic notarization. In summary, digital certificates play a crucial role in ensuring the security and authenticity of electronic transactions and communications.
A digital certificate is an electronic document that verifies the identity of an individual, organisation, or website. It contains information such as the certificate holder’s name, public key, and the digital signature of a trusted third party called a Certificate Authority (CA).
When a digital certificate is issued, the CA digitally signs it using their private key. This signature ensures the integrity and authenticity of the certificate. When a user encounters a website or entity with a digital certificate, their browser or application verifies the certificate’s signature using the CA’s public key.
Digital certificates play a crucial role in establishing secure communication over the internet. They enable encryption, authentication, and integrity of data exchanged between parties, ensuring that sensitive information remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access.
Digital certificates are issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs) that follow industry standards and guidelines. Examples of well-known CAs include DigiCert, Symantec, and Let’s Encrypt.
The validity period of a digital certificate varies depending on the CA and the type of certificate. Typically, they are valid for one to three years. After the expiration date, the certificate needs to be renewed or replaced.
Yes, a digital certificate can be revoked if it is compromised, no longer valid, or if the certificate holder’s private key is compromised. Certificate revocation is done by the CA and is typically published in a Certificate Revocation List (CRL) or through Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP).
Digital certificates themselves are not legally binding. However, they serve as evidence of the identity of the certificate holder and can be used in legal proceedings to establish the authenticity and integrity of digital transactions or communications.
No, digital certificates are non-transferable. They are issued to a specific individual or organisation and cannot be transferred to another party. If a certificate needs to be transferred, a new certificate must be issued to the intended recipient.
If a digital certificate is compromised, it poses a significant security risk. The certificate should be immediately revoked by the CA to prevent its misuse. The certificate holder should also take necessary steps to investigate the breach, secure their systems, and obtain a new certificate.
Yes, there are different types of digital certificates based on their purpose and usage. Some common types include SSL/TLS certificates for securing websites, code signing certificates for software developers, and email certificates for encrypting and digitally signing emails.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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