The Electronic Communications Act regulates cryptography in the UK by giving the home office power to create a registration regime for encryption services, while also confirming the legal status of electronic signatures. It established an electronic system for verifying identities and time-stamping online agreements, allowing for official contracts to be signed publicly over the internet, though with some limitations around transactions like real estate.

1. The ECA Electronic Communications Act

2. TWO MAIN POINTS Regulates the provision of cryptography in the UK AND Confirms the legal status of electronic signatures

3. Cryptography in the UK Tony Blair, approve and appeal, cryptography in the UK Encryption, and encryption services, important for e – commerce Problem! By 1999 This act gave the home office the power to create a registration regime for encryption services. Thus a “sunset clause” which made it lapse after a 5 year period.

4. Electronic Signatures Electronic system for checking identities and time-stamping any agreements made or signed online Public the ability official contracts over the internet. limitations (you still have to buy a house the “old fashioned way”).