AutoFirma

AutoFirma is the desktop and mobile signature client supplied to Spanish public administrations as part of the @firma suite. Citizens can use it when a government website requests an electronic signature, or to sign a file on their device before sending it.

Role in e-government

Public bodies use AutoFirma to add electronic signing to online procedures. A service may ask users to sign an application, form or supporting document with a digital certificate. AutoFirma handles the signing step.

Documents and formats

The open source project supports PAdES signatures for PDF files, XAdES for XML, CAdES and electronic invoices. The format available depends on the document and the requirements of the procedure.

Using it with websites

AutoFirma runs as a standalone desktop or mobile application. A government website can also call the installed client through a browser integration, allowing the user to sign during an online process. Setup varies by operating system, browser and service.

Certificates and setup

Signing requires a compatible digital certificate available to the device or application. The client lets the user choose the certificate and file. Acceptance depends on certificate validity and the receiving public body's requirements.

Public code

The Spanish government's Technology Transfer Center publishes the project source code. AutoFirma is free software under GPL version 2 or later and EUPL 1.1, according to the project. Public administrations and developers can inspect and reuse the implementation.