Digital Certificates vs. eFirma, ¿are the same thing?

In a context where digital transformation is reshaping the way citizens and institutions manage their procedures, questions often arise regarding the acquisition and use of digital certificates. To address these concerns and strengthen trust in electronic processes, Softel provides key clarifications to help users better understand the possibilities offered by this technology and the current status of the eFirma Platform.

The objective is clear: to provide accurate and accessible information that enables citizens to fully benefit from digital certificates while ensuring security, speed, and transparency in every process.

What is a digital certificate?

A digital certificate is a technological mechanism that allows its holder to be digitally identified and to use digital signature processes in documents and electronic transactions. Its use helps guarantee the authenticity of the signer and the integrity of the information contained in electronic documents.

Is it necessary to use the eFirma platform to obtain a digital certificate?

No.

Obtaining a digital certificate is a process independent of the eFirma platform. Interested citizens can acquire their digital certificate through any Certification Authority authorized nationwide, without the need to contract or use the eFirma service.

Currently, there are more than ten authorized entities providing this service across the country.

Can I use my digital certificate even if the eFirma platform is unavailable?

Yes.

Once obtained, a digital certificate can be configured on desktop or laptop computers and used through compatible tools for managing and signing electronic documents.

This allows users to work with different document types, including formats such as Word, PDF, and Excel, depending on the capabilities and compatibility of the tools being used.

What is eFirma?

eFirma is a technology platform developed exclusively by Softel to facilitate the use of digital certificates across different technological environments.

The platform enables the use of digital certificates through APK applications, mobile applications, and a web version.

Are the digital certificate and the eFirma platform the same thing?

No.

Although both are related to digital signatures, they serve different purposes.

A digital certificate allows its holder to be digitally identified and to perform digital signature processes.

eFirma, on the other hand, is a Cuban platform that facilitates the use of digital certificates through different applications and environments.

Is eFirma the only option for digitally signing documents?

No.

eFirma is a technological solution designed to facilitate the use of digital certificates. However, you can also use digital certificates with other compatible tools to manage and sign electronic documents.

What is the current status of the eFirma platform?

Currently, the plan-association service within the eFirma platform is unavailable, despite our technical team's efforts. We are working intensively to restore this functionality with complete security and stability.

What alternatives are currently available for citizens who need to use a digital certificate?

Citizens can obtain their digital certificate through Certification Authorities authorized nationwide.

Additionally, once the certificate has been issued, it can be configured and used on desktop or laptop computers through compatible tools for managing and signing electronic documents.

Therefore, the temporary situation affecting the eFirma platform does not prevent the acquisition or use of digital certificates through other available alternatives.

What will happen to customers who have paid for eFirma plans?

Customers who have paid for eFirma plans will have access to the service once the platform becomes operational again.

Activation will take place when the system is once again available and able to guarantee the proper functioning of its services and features.

Where can eFirma users stay informed?

Updates regarding the service restoration process are communicated through eFirma’s official channels.

Users are encouraged to stay informed through the official eFirma Telegram channel and Softel’s social media platforms.

Final Clarification

Softel considers it important to clarify that the acquisition and use of digital certificates do not depend exclusively on the eFirma platform.

While technical efforts to restore the service continue, citizens can access the available alternatives for obtaining and using digital certificates through authorized entities and compatible tools.

Softel will continue to provide timely updates regarding progress in the restoration of the service.