Under the Information Technology Act, 2000, who has the authority to determine the manner and format in which the electronic signature shall be affixed?
Central Government
State Government
Certifying Authority
Either of 1, 2, or 3
None of the above
Answer and explanation
Section 10 of the IT Act, 2000 empowers the Central Government to prescribe rules regarding electronic signatures, including: (a) type of electronic signature, (b) manner and format of affixing it, (c) procedure for identifying the person affixing it, (d) control processes to ensure integrity, security, and confidentiality, and (e) any other matter necessary to give legal effect to electronic signatures. The word 'electronic signature' was substituted for 'digital signature' by the IT (Amendment) Act, 2009.