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Understanding Authentication Method

Understanding Authentication Method

A short guide to various types of electronic signatures and what you should know about them.

Daniel Gjøde avatar
Written by Daniel Gjøde
Updated over 2 weeks ago

Please Note: Advanced Electronic Signatures are currently only available in Denmark. All other countries will use Simple Electronic Signatures as default.

When you're sending a contract with Connie, you’ll be asked to choose how signers should verify their identity before signing. This is called the authentication method, and it affects the type of electronic signature that gets applied.

Let’s break it down:

Simple Electronic Signature (SES)

This is the default option in Connie. The signer receives a secure link via email, or accesses a Public SignPage, reviews the document, and signs electronically by either Swiping to Sign or Long Pressing to Sign — no extra steps.

  • Easy and fast for your signers

  • No app or login required

  • Ideal for NDAs, consent forms, internal approvals, or low-risk agreements

💡 Legally valid for most everyday use cases where high-level identity verification isn’t needed

Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)

This method includes an extra step for verifying the signer’s identity. In Connie, this can be done using MitID (used in Denmark), with more verified ID methods coming soon.

  • Stronger identity verification

  • Often required in regulated industries or when working with public sector entities

  • More secure, but takes a bit longer to complete

💡 Legally valid and offers a higher level of legal evidence.

What should I choose?

  • Choose Simple if you want speed and ease, and you're working with low-risk contracts.

  • Choose Advanced if the contract involves legal, financial, or regulatory obligations—or if the recipient requests it.

Are both legally valid?

Yes. Both methods are legally valid under EU law. The main difference is how strongly you can prove who signed and how the signature was applied.

In short:

  • Simple = legally valid + faster

  • Advanced = legally valid + more robust evidence

Further Reading

If you’d like to dig into the legal definitions and rules behind electronic signatures, here are a few helpful resources:

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