Digitization, security, sovereignty: understanding the challenges of dematerialization and electronic signatures

For several years now, the dematerialization of documents, contracts and identities has been a strategic lever for companies, offering them greater efficiency and flexibility. The electronic signature is one of the pillars of this trend, with 1 in 2 European employees using it on a daily basis.

However, even if the benefits of digitalization are obvious, new challenges are emerging. Many employees are concerned about the security of digital documents, and 1 in 5 has already been confronted with a falsified document in the workplace.

Given the opportunities and challenges of dematerialization, the Yousign x Ipsos 2025 Barometer reviews the current state of electronic signature adoption in Europe, and the new challenges linked to the security of documents, contracts and digital identities.

Between protection and innovation: what solutions for effective digitalization?

Although companies are widely adopting digital tools, the integrity of documents and digital identities is a source of concern, particularly in strategic functions. Falsifying documents can have serious consequences, ranging from legal disputes to financial losses.

The security of documents therefore becomes a strategic imperative. It relies on robust protection measures, guaranteeing their authenticity against the risks of manipulation. It also requires partnerships with trusted service providers certified by the authorities.

Finally, digital sovereignty is becoming an essential lever, with increasing attention being paid to the location of infrastructures.