Using Digital Signatures

Adding a digital signature to a message provides absolute proof that the message is from you and has not been altered in any way. Digital signatures that are issued by companies provide security measures through certificates and public keys that protect your identify. To digitally sign messages, you must obtain a digital ID. If you are using Microsoft Exchange Server, then you can obtain a digital ID from the administrator of the server. If you are not part of an Exchange Server network, you can also obtain a digital ID over the Internet from a company that provides certification services, such as VeriSign, Inc.; GlobalSIng, British Telecommunications; and Thawte Certification.

Create a Digital Signature

Click the Tools menu, and then click Options.

Click the Security tab.

Click Get A Digital ID. The Microsoft.com Assistance page opens, displaying the names of several certification companies that you can choose from.

Click the company from which you want to obtain a Digital ID, and then complete the instructions, including registering your digital ID.

Click OK.

Add a Digital Signature to a Message

In Mail view, click the New button.

Click the Options button on the toolbar.

Click Security Settings.

Select the Add Digital Signature To This Message check box.

Click OK.

Click Close.

Complete the message, and then click the Send button.