What electronic signatures are and when they are valid
Photo: Avila Ops Tecnologia
Electronic signatures confirm online that someone agreed to a document: clicking “accept,” signing by finger, confirming a phone code or using a digital certificate. They are valid in Brazil with differing strength by security level. For most business-customer contracts, the simplest level suffices.
Paper contracts stall sales. Customers want a Mother’s Day package today, and you request printing, signing and photographs. Electronic signatures confirm by phone in a minute and preserve proof.
What are the three levels and when are they valid?
Law 14.063/2020 defines three levels. It addresses public bodies but became a business-customer reference:
- Simple. Confirms agreement: accept clicks, onscreen signatures, WhatsApp or email codes. Suitable for service contracts, approved quotes and photo authorization.
- Advanced. More strongly links signatures to people, such as gov.br signatures. Suitable for high values or greater dispute risk.
- Qualified. Uses ICP-Brasil certificates, e-CPF or e-CNPJ. Required for specific acts such as NF-e product tax invoices.
Between private parties, mutually accepted methods are valid under article 10, paragraph 2, of Provisional Measure 2.200-2/2001. Phone-code service contracts are usually valid if who signed, when and the wording can be proved.
What must small businesses retain?
Signatures help only if you can show them afterward. Keep:
- The exact signed document without later edits.
- Signer identity: name and CPF, email or phone used.
- Date, time and method.
- Platform reports if applicable.
“Agreed” on WhatsApp works as a simple signature and usually as evidence, but agreed terms must be in the conversation. For service packages, first read Fixed packages versus hourly work.
A Mother’s Day photographer sends contracts through a customer portal; clients read, accept and receive timestamped email copies.
What to do now
Check current quote approval. Paper photos or “OK” without terms provide weak evidence. A portal approving and retaining copies solves it: avilaops.com/portal-do-cliente. Diagnose exposure in one conversation: avilaops.com/contato or contact us on WhatsApp: wa.me/5517997811471.
Frequently asked questions
Are contracts signed through WhatsApp valid?
Generally as simple signatures if terms appear in the conversation and customers agree. Retain the complete dated conversation.
Do customer contracts require digital certificates?
No. Certificates are required for specific acts such as NF-e. Simple or advanced signatures usually suffice for business-customer service contracts.
Must electronic signatures use paid platforms?
No, but platforms generate the who, when and how records you would otherwise assemble yourself.
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