Account & Access Requirements
Do we need an A-Trust account?
Yes. To use the digital signature capability with A-Trust, the signer must already have or sign up for an A-Trust (ID Austria) account.
Do I have to purchase A-Trust or can I use SecureExchange without it?
Yes, SecureExchange can be used without A-Trust. The A-Trust digital signature feature is an optional API-based add-on, available exclusively to Enterprise customers.
What if we are already using another e-signature provider?
Currently, A-Trust is the only supported provider.
However, if you use another e-signature solution, we are open to evaluating it for future integration as part of our partner ecosystem.
Integration & Availability
Is this feature available in the standard SecureExchange Admin Portal UI?
No. The A-Trust digital signature functionality is only available via API at this stage. It is not accessible in the standard web interface.
Will this require IT integration on our side?
Yes. As this is an API-only solution, your IT team will need to perform the necessary integration. The monthly flat fee helps cover the enablement and ongoing maintenance.
How does the integration work from A to Z?
Customers receive detailed eAPI documentation, including authentication setup, document submission, signature request handling, and retrieval of signed documents. All endpoints required for the full e-signature lifecycle are covered.
Regulatory Compliance & Legal Validity
Is A-Trust legally recognized? Does this comply with financial or data regulations (e.g., GDPR, eIDAS)?
Yes, A-Trust provides Qualified Electronic Signatures, which are the most secure and legally binding type of electronic signatures under eIDAS. A QES is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature under EU law.
A-Trust is eIDAS-certified and GDPR compliant, ensuring privacy, data protection, and consent management for all personal data processed across Austria and the EU.
Which countries is this valid in?
A-Trust's qualified electronic signatures are recognized across all EU member states under the eIDAS Regulation.
How is the audit trail managed?
Each signed document includes a comprehensive audit trail with:
-
User ID
-
Document ID
-
Signature status (e.g., prepared, signed, error)
-
Timestamps (e.g., request created, user authenticated, document signed)
This ensures full traceability and legal defensibility in line with eIDAS.
Functionality & Technical Details
How does this improve our document workflow?
The integration allows for a seamless exchange + signature workflow within SecureExchange. This eliminates the need for external signature tools, reduces manual steps, and improves compliance, saving time and operational cost.
Does this work on mobile devices?
Yes. The SecureExchange platform is fully responsive, and the A-Trust signing process works on smartphones and tablets. No additional app is required.
How does the authentication process work for signers?
During signing, users authenticate via their A-Trust credentials (ID Austria). Once verified, they can apply a qualified electronic signature directly through SecureExchange.
What file types are supported for signing?
Currently, only PDF documents can be digitally signed using A-Trust.