Re-Signing
As in many other sectors the technical development is proceeding continuously in the field of electronic signatures. Methods and means of electronic signing, e.g. especially approved algorithms, are also affected by this development.
To make sure these algorithms in particular meet the increasing technical requirements, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) is making an annual review. Afterwards, adequate algorithms are released. They can be used for qualified electronic signing in compliance with the Signature Law.
Data that has been signed through “old” algorithms has to be re-signed, using the “new” algorithms, before the “old” algorithms expire. This way the signature hence the data can be protected in the long term only. In general, this procedure is called “re-signing”.
The re-signing takes place by use of timestamps. It runs, depending on the implementation, highly automated, quickly, transparently for the user and centrally. For this purpose, AuthentiDate is providing software products that are compliant with the Signature Law and timestamps generated in the accredited AuthentiDate trust center.
National and international standards existing for re-signing can be considered when using the AuthentiDate Software.
You can download the official publication for the usable algorithms of the Federal Network Agency here.
