Where to Use Digital Signatures?
Initially, the idea of using digital signatures on every email, document, file, etc. seems like a good idea. The mere fact that you can guarantee the information came from you on every message is very promising. In reality, digital signatures should be used more intelligently. The main problem with signing every document is dealing with the public keys. For example, a simple email to your roommate asking him to purchase milk does not require a digital signature. To verify that your roommate has your public key and then email him about milk is an added unncessary step and is too time consuming. On the other hand, exchanging bank statements online should definately have a digital signature. It is well worth the added time to verify keys prior to online document exchanges because then you can ensure the documents are really coming from the bank/customer. As with these two examples, there is a point of limiting returns with digital signatures. With the bank, we get great returns because we
