eSigning 101: What, Why, When & How • 6

A QUICK HISTORY OF eSIGNATURES

Some may think that eSignatures burst into the business world following the passing of ESIGN. But really, the history of eSignatures goes back much farther. Below is a high-level history of eSignatures, as well as groundbreaking laws and mandates that helped accelerate adoption:

Mid-1800s

Government officials and businesses use Morse code and the

telegraph to electronically accept agreements.

1980s

Fax machines are the most popular devices to

electronically send contracts and other important

documents between people and businesses.

1999

The National Conference of Commissioners develops

the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). UETA

provides a legal framework for the use of eSignatures and

records in government and business transactions.

2000

The Electronic Signatures in Global and National

Commerce Act (ESIGN) is signed into federal law. The

law states that a document or signature cannot be denied legal effect or enforceability

because it is in electronic form.2007

Apple releases the iPhone, which becomes one of the

world’s most popular mobile devices. Widespread adoption

of touchscreen devices is increasing demand for

allowing eSigning on the go.

2010

Mobile app and payment company Square launches, empowering consumers to

sign for products and services directly on mobile screens.

eSigning 101: What, Why, When & How • 6