Oct 22, 2021, 14:39 PM by Riaan De Villiers

Not all timestamps are created equally. Using insecure timestamps can create a whole host of problems for your organisation.

The risk of not using secure timestamps

Timestamps are an important component in many business applications. Examples include stock trading, legal documents, bank transactions, lottery tickets, etc.

Even in applications where a timestamp is not a critical component, timestamping can assist with record keeping and audit processes.

To ensure that your electronic data is trusted, timestamp your data with a trusted timestamp from a trusted timestamping authority.

Using insecure timestamps can pose risks and challenges to your organisation.

1. Expired private keys

   If a user can access an expired private key, they can still sign documents. Without a timestamp, you cannot prove if the document was signed before or after the expiry of the private key!

2. No trust

   If you cannot trust your electronic data, a costly paper trail is required to back up electronic data.

3. Local clock

   Malicious users can manipulate the clock on their local computer and create a fraudulent timestamp.

4. Legal and compliance issues

Insecure timestamps can expose your organisation to legal or compliance challenges.