Simple Signature vs. e.firma.

How to Choose the Right Signature for Each Document?

At Cincel, we offer you the flexibility to choose the type of signature that best suits your needs, always with the certainty of legal validity in Mexico. You can choose between the Autograph Signature (With stroke or with Name) and the Advanced Electronic Signature (e.firma).

Both are powerful tools for digitalizing your agreements, but what is the key difference and when should you use each one?

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1) Digital Autograph Signature (Simple Signature):

Simple Signature is the digital version of your handwritten signature. It is an intuitive and fast method, perfect for most of your documents.

Legal validity in Mexico:

The Simple Signature generated in Cincel is legally valid according to the Mexican Commercial Code. Its evidentiary value is reinforced by the layers of security and evidence that Cincel adds:

• Association with the signer: Your identity is linked to the signature through your email and other data.

• Audit Trail: A detailed record of all actions, IPs, and timestamps.

• NOM-151 Certificate: A certificate issued by an authorized PSC that grants a certain date and presumption of integrity.

It is ideal for documents when agility and speed are essential:

• Purchase orders and quotes.

• Non-disclosure agreements (NDA).

• Internal HR documents.

At Cincel, we give you two options to use simple or autograph signatures:

 

1.1)   Autograph signature with stroke drawing

This is a stroke or drawing that you create directly on the screen using the mouse, your finger, or a stylus. Cincel captures this stroke and securely associates it with your identity as a signer, thanks to the evidence generated during the process.

Does it have to be identical to the one on my INE?

Not necessarily; it is normal for it to vary. The fundamental thing is that it represents your consent and the validation of your identity.

 

1.2)    Autograph signature with typed name

This refers to writing your name through the device, and this text is captured as your signature; Cincel securely associates it with your identity as a signer, thanks to the evidence generated during the process.

 

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2) Advanced Electronic Signature (e.firma): Maximum Legal Certainty

The e.firma (formerly FIEL) is the electronic signature par excellence in Mexico. It is issued and regulated by the Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT).

What is it and how does it work in Cincel?

It is a set of unique digital files that identify you. To use it, you need to upload:

• The .CER file (Certificate)

• The .KEY file (Private Key)

• The password for your private key.

Cincel uses these elements to apply your e.firma to the document, guaranteeing its authenticity.

The e.firma possesses the highest legal validity. According to Article 17-D of the Código Fiscal de la Federación [Fiscal Code of the Federation], the e.firma:

• Substitutes your handwritten autograph signature.

• Produces the same legal effects as a handwritten document.

• Guarantees integrity and non-repudiation (the signer cannot deny having signed).

 

Security of your e.firma in Cincel

Your security is our priority. Cincel never stores your .CER or .KEY files, nor your password. You must upload them every time you sign, ensuring that control is always yours.

 

It is ideal for high-value documents or those with significant legal implications, for example:

• Assembly minutes and corporate agreements.

• Credit contracts or financial instruments.

• Any document that requires maximum legal certainty.