A digital signature is a sophisticated mathematical technique used to verify the authenticity and integrity of digital messages, documents, or software. Unlike a scanned image of a handwritten signature, a digital signature employs cryptographic algorithms to create a unique, encrypted “fingerprint” that is inextricably linked to both the signer and the content of the document. This process typically involves a pair of keys: a private key, known only to the signer, and a public key, which is shared and used to verify the signature. When a document is digitally signed, a cryptographic hash (a unique code) of the document is generated and then encrypted with the signer’s private key. The recipient can then use the signer’s public key to decrypt this hash and compare it to a newly generated hash of the received document. If they match, it confirms both the signer’s identity and that the document has not been altered since it was signed.
Conclusion: Striking off a partnership firm is a structured and necessary process that protects partners from future liabilities and formally ends the firm’s legal existence.