What does a digital signature specifically relate to?

A digital signature is indeed a form of electronic signature with added security features that ensure the authenticity and integrity of a digital message or document. It uses cryptography to secure data, making it possible to verify the sender's identity and confirm that the message has not been altered in transit. The technology behind digital signatures typically involves a public key infrastructure (PKI), where a hash of the document is encrypted with the signer's private key. This process guarantees not only the authenticity of the signer but also that the content has remained unchanged since it was signed.

In contrast to other types of electronic signatures that may vary in security levels and may not necessarily authenticate the signer or document with the same rigor, a digital signature offers a higher level of verification and protection. This distinction is crucial in legal contexts and for the security practices of electronic transactions, where trust and authenticity are paramount.