In a press release from JSC "National Information Technologies" (JSC "NIT") on May 4, 2024, the reasons behind the change in the format of electronic digital signatures (EDS) were explained.
The release states that the National Certification Authority has transitioned from the current process of issuing and using two EDS keys to the application of only one key. This means that both physical and legal entities will be issued a single key using the GOST algorithm, which will be used for both authorization and signature purposes.
"One of the ways to access government services is through electronic digital signature keys. With the introduction of new digital technologies, it is necessary to ensure security in the current realities and use up-to-date versions of cryptographic standards. This standard has doubled the length of the EDS key compared to the previous standard," noted Acting Chairman of the Board of JSC "National Information Technologies" Dmitry Moon.
The key changes include:
- Single registration certificate: Instead of two registration certificates for authorization and signature, only one will now be issued, simplifying the management of digital keys.
- Validity period of old EDS: All previously issued EDS keys prior to the transition to the GOST 2015 algorithm will be supported until the expiration of their validity period.
- Easy update process: To use the new GOST 2015 standard in the mobile application, simply updating the eGov Mobile application is required.
Additionally, the following unused templates intended for use by legal entities have been excluded from the available list:
- "Employee with the right to sign financial documents"
- "Employee of the HR department"
It was previously announced that the format of electronic digital signatures (EDS) has changed in Kazakhstan. This is due to the implementation of the cryptographic standard (using a single EDS key) on April 30, 2024. The National Certification Authority of the Republic of Kazakhstan provided details on what Kazakhstani citizens need to know about this transition. More information can be found on the National Certification Authority's website.
