Electronic signatures are fundamental to the growth of e-commerce and - with the passing of the Electronic Communications Act 2000 - they are now legally recognised in the UK. This title explains the legal issues involved.

This is the comprehensive guide to explaining the commercial, technical and legal issues involved in the use of electronic signatures. It contains the national legislation of many major jurisdictions, and by putting these into a wider international context clarifies what is one of the fastest moving and highest profile areas of law. These include various implementations of the Electronic Signatures Directive across the existing and future European Union.
* A clear guide to an important area of e-commerce
* Provides a complete overview of legislative initiatives at the international level following the UNCITRAL Model Laws on Electronic Commerce and Electronic Signatures and the OECD Declaration on Authentication for Electronic Commerce
* Explains the impact of the Electronic Signatures Directive
* Reviews the work on technical standardisation to ensure interoperability of electronic signature devices
* Describes and explains the regulation of certification service providers in all major jurisdictions
* A CD-ROM contains all relevant legislation from around the world

Introduction. Legal functions and requirements of signatures. Forms of electronic signatures. Structural/operational aspects of electronic signatures. International initiatives. Electronic signature legislation. Practical issues. Evidential issues. Regulatory issues. Standards. Appendices.