Digital communication

In the course of the digital transformation, a new communication infrastructure has emerged which includes search engines (e.g. Google), social networking platforms (e.g. Facebook), multimedia platforms (e.g. YouTube) and microblogging services (e.g. X). This has expanded the possibilities of private and public communication and information searches. These new services (platforms) can enrich public debate, but they can also entail risks for public communication in Switzerland.

The electronic signature is a technical procedure for guaranteeing the authenticity of a document, a message or other electronic data and ensuring the identity of the signatory. It is based on an infrastructure managed by certification services providers. In order to encourage the development of e-commerce, the legislator allows certification service providers to become a recognised provider on an optional basis. In this way, they are able to demonstrate that the quality, reliability and security of the services they provide comply with the applicable standards. Under certain conditions, the law also treats electronic signatures as equivalent to handwritten signatures.