5 Essential Features to Look for in eSignature Software for Legal Compliance 

Electronic signatures have transformed how organizations process documents, close deals, and get work done, but they may present a few legal hurdles to jump depending on your industry. Compliance requirements for eSigning vary across industries and geographical boundaries, requiring businesses to implement solutions that can easily adapt to multiple regulatory environments. 

 Read on for a breakdown of the must-have features to look for when searching for an eSign solution capable of meeting today’s compliance challenges.

1. Robust identity verification

Businesses need an eSign platform that offers multi-factor authentication beyond simple email verification. At the very least, your eSign software should offer a range of identification methods so you can choose the best options for your organization’s compliance needs.  

 Advanced eSign platforms provide multiple authentication techniques to prove signer identity, such as: 

• Biometric signatures 
• One-time passwords (OTPs) 
• Real-time identity checks

Nitro's powerful API makes it easy to “pick and plug” the right identification methods for your business. Our eSign platform also integrates with central government authentication services to provide the highest level of identity verification and guarantee compliance with electronic signature regulations. Download the Ultimate Guide to Electronic Signatures to learn more about eSigning verification techniques. 

2. Detailed audit trails

Audit trails create a digital fingerprint of signed documents that alerts users to any unauthorized changes — establishing document integrity and helping you demonstrate regulatory adherence. In the event of a dispute, these detailed logs provide proof of the document's authenticity to effectively put the burden of proof on any party challenging the signature. 

Look for an eSignature solution that tracks user interactions. For instance, Nitro's eSign software automatically generates audit trails that record precise timestamps, IP addresses, and complete signing histories to create a comprehensive, downloadable audit trail. These analyzable records provide the data you need to demonstrate compliance with regulations like the European Union’s electronic IDentification, Authentication and trust Services (eIDAS), the United States’ Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and more.

3. Advanced encryption protocols

Encryption has become an absolute necessity for electronic signature platforms to fend off increasingly sophisticated attack methods. Compliance frameworks like ISO 27001 and SOC 2 require software to maintain encryption protocols that keep data secure and private throughout the signing process, so choosing an eSign solution that includes certified encryption capabilities helps you protect sensitive information while meeting international security standards. 

Your eSign software should provide: 

• Encryption for data in transit and at rest 
• Cryptographic seals that prevent document tampering 
• Decryption methods that restrict unauthorized user access 
• Integration with secure authentication protocol

These encryption features prevent unauthorized users from accessing your data and help you guarantee security throughout the signing process.

4. Global regulatory alignment

Since different regions and industries require varying levels of authentication, you’ll have to confirm that your chosen solution meets the electronic signature laws that apply to your organization. Your eSign software should be able to support multiple legal frameworks, such as eIDAS, UETA, the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN), and Switzerland’s ZertES, along with industry-specific requirements like HIPAA and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 

Many of these regulations require Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES), which bind a signer's identity to their signature through a personal, qualified certificate issued by a Qualified Trust Service Provider (QTSP). Having QES capabilities is critical for high-stakes transactions in industries requiring maximum security and legal verification. 

Make sure your eSign platform can adapt as new regulations are introduced. For instance, Nitro’s eSign solutions integrate seamlessly with identity services and electronic ID initiatives to align with various global and industry laws while future-proofing your business against changing requirements. Plus, as a QTSP, Nitro offers QES at a fraction of the cost of other providers’ solutions.

5. Secure document storage and archival

Different industries have specific requirements for the security standards documents must meet during storage and how long they must be retained. The right eSignature platform should provide secure, easily accessible document repositories that maintain the original document's integrity.  

Modern electronic signature solutions also offer advanced storage. These systems track and monitor archived documents to ensure they remain protected while granting authorized personnel quick retrieval. Look for software that can automatically manage document retention, provide detailed tracking, and support seamless document access for your authorized users. 

Stay secure and compliant with Nitro 

Electronic signature regulations constantly evolve, with industries like healthcare, financial services, and legal sectors facing increasing scrutiny around digital document management. By choosing eSignature software that prioritizes compliance, you stay aligned with shifting industry standards and data protection requirements. 

Nitro’s eSign solutions enable your organization to adhere to compliance laws and ensure a secure digital signing experience. Our commitment to compliance doesn’t stop at meeting current standards; we build adaptable solutions to give you a future-proof foundation for your digital signing processes.

Get in touch with Nitro to learn more about secure, compliant electronic signatures.