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The move towards digital capture of signatures will make the process of signing up for contracts faster and more convenient for its customers. In addition, it supports the company's migration towards paperless business processes in line with its goal to conduct business in a more environmentally friendly manner. The system went live nationwide on 1 September 2010, in time for Arbour Day.
The customer's signature is captured on a digital signature pad and is electronically attached to the electronic 'paperwork' generated by the systems. The signature is stored in an encrypted format for security reasons and cannot be copied. It is also time and date stamped so that it cannot be reused for any purpose besides the original contract it is attached to. Any attempt to change the document after it has been signed will invalidate both the signature and the contract.
The digital signatures also strengthen security by offering more information than paper-based signatures and offers biometric functionality. This form of digital signature is recognised by the Electronic Communications & Transactions Act and makes paperless contracts legally binding.