Question

instructions: select the most appropriate response.
which is an application of mathematical function to an electronic document and is the proposed standard for electronic signatures?
a. message digest
b. unique bit string
c. check digit
d. digital

Explanation:

A digital signature is a mathematical technique used to validate the authenticity and integrity of a message, software, or digital document. It involves a message digest (a fixed - size hash value of the document) which is encrypted using the sender's private key. The other options:

• A unique bit string is too general.
• A check digit is a simple error - detection code (e.g., in ISBNs) and not related to digital signatures in the context of being a standard for electronic signatures.
• While "digital" is part of the term "digital signature", it is the message digest (after proper hashing and encryption steps) that is the key component in the mathematical function for digital signatures.

Answer:

A. message digest