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‘Game-changer’ digital signature product launched
In an Australian-first, a new product has been launched that removes the need for a human witness when signing legal documents.
Shandel McAuliffe
Livesign, a new product by thelawstore.com.au, was created to keep up with an increasingly digital world – and means that the signing of legal documents can now be completed digitally and securely. The technology allows those giving signatures to be identity-checked at the time of signing. The person making the digital signature is essentially ID-checked by the device taking the signature, enabled by the linking of their biometric information with their government-issued ID.
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Thelawstore.com.au chief executive Ian Hendey said that “effectively, a mobile phone has become the secure witness in a digital world”.
Livesign uses ePassports, which “have a chip that contains information about the holder, including full name, date of birth, nationality, and a high-resolution photo”, according to the website.
“Livesign reads the ePassport chip to unlock the information which is then matched to the signer. At the moment of signing, the app prompts the signer to take a selfie. The selfie is biometrically face-matched to the high-resolution photo ID and simultaneously tested to ensure it is a real person,” it stated.
“Digital signing and digital VOI are no longer just conveniences, they’re an expectation, especially in industries such as conveyancing and mortgage lending,” Mr Hendey added.
When announcing the new product, thelawstore.com.au noted that Livesign suits conveyancers, lawyers in general, banks and property brokers.
Victorian Statewide Conveyancing director Peter Gajanovic stated: “Having peace of mind that our clients can securely complete a client authorisation form and verify their identity at home, at their own convenience, saves us time and hassle.”
Keylaw Conveyancing Solicitors legal practice director Perry Russell added that Livesign offers “a clear verification of identity experience for our clients, alleviating what was previously a major pain point for our firm”.
Gateway Bank’s head of customer operations Zeb Drummond explained that the technology is particularly useful for those who live in remote areas.
“Livesign has removed barriers for customers in rural and regional areas Australia-wide, as they don’t need to rely on the postal service or face-to-face verifications when signing mortgage documents,” he said.
“Livesign supports Gateway Bank’s purpose to support Australian pockets and [the] planet, taking paperwork out of the verification process.”
In addition to addressing security concerns around digital signatures, the new product also saves time and resources, Mr Gajanovic added.
“As a large conveyancing company, Livesign enables us to redeploy time previously spent on verification of identity into growing our business, which is a game-changer,” he said.
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