The electronic signature is a technical procedure which makes it possible to guarantee the authenticity of a document, a message or other electronic data and to ensure the identity of the signatory. It is based on a certification infrastructure managed by third party providers - certification services providers. Their infrastructure also makes it possible to provide solutions for identifying oneself to online services and to secure data which is to be transmitted. In order to encourage the development of e-Commerce, the legislator allows certification service providers to be recognized on a voluntary basis. In this way they are able to demonstrate that the quality, reliability and security of the services provided comply with the applicable standards. Under certain conditions, the Act assigns equal status to the electronic signature as a handwritten signature.
Acts and ordinances
Documents available in german, french or italian only.
Technical and administrative prescriptions
Document available in german, french or italian only.
Directives
Document available in german only.
Richtlinien bezüglich des Verfahrens bei Einstellung der Geschäftstätigkeit einer anerkannten CSP (PDF, 219 kB, 07.12.2017)Ausgabe 2: Dezember 2017
Recognised certification services providers
Certification service providers can have themselves recognised by the bodies accredited by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS).
Last modification 02.04.2020
