Electronic signature has legal effect. However, the electronic signature should be exclusive to the electronic signer and have the same legal effect as the handwritten signature or seal. Electronic signature is a kind of signature that uses digital technology to determine the true identity of the signer. Traditional signatures must be attached to tangible media, but in the process of electronic transactions, documents are formed by sending, exchanging, transmitting and storing data messages, and there is no tangible media. This requires a technical means to identify the two parties to the transaction and ensure the security of the transaction, so as to achieve the same function as the traditional handwritten signature.

The printed electronic version of the contract is not the original. The scanned and printed contract can only be counted as a copy, not as an original. But the scanned and printed contract is still a valid contract. A data message that can tangibly express its content through electronic data interchange, e-mail, etc. , and can be retrieved at any time, are considered in writing. Electronic contracts that lock the true identity of the signing subject, effectively prevent document tampering and accurately record the signing time are recognized by law. Through the third-party electronic contract platform, electronic contracts signed with reliable electronic signatures are legal and effective.

Legal basis: Article 13 of People's Republic of China (PRC) Electronic Signature Law.

An electronic signature shall be regarded as reliable if it meets the following conditions:

(1) When the electronic signature production data is used for electronic signature, it belongs to the exclusive rights of the electronic signer;

(2) When signing, the electronic signature production data is only controlled by the electronic signer;

(3) Any changes to the electronic signature after signature can be found;

(4) Any changes to the content and form of the data message after signature can be found.

The parties can also choose to use electronic signatures that meet their agreed reliable conditions.

Article 14

A reliable electronic signature has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature or seal.