What is Signature (Cryptographic)?

A cryptographic signature is a mathematical mechanism that is used to verify the authenticity of a digital message or digital document within a digital network. Cryptographic signatures are commonly used for financial transactions, digital contract management, software distribution, and a broad array of other use cases that prioritize the accurate detection and prevention of forgery and data-tampering. In regards to blockchain technology, cryptographic signatures are typically used to prove that the correct private key was used to initiate and send a transaction through a complex authentication process that involves the use of both a private and public key.