Access 2003 VBA Programmer's Reference

20.2. Digital Signatures and Certificates

Up to this point we've been talking about how databases with digital signatures are exceptions to the macro security checks. That is, if a database is digitally signed, it can be opened regardless of the macro security level setting.

So what is a digital signature and how do you create one?

You have probably seen various forms of digital signatures or digitally signed programs while browsing the Internet or installing software. Typically you'll see a security warning dialog box. The dialog box contains information that describes the purpose of the digital certificate used to sign the program, the date and time the certificate was published, and who published it. Some certificates permit you to obtain more information about the program and/or the publisher. After reviewing the information about the certificate, you can accept the certificate or reject it. If desired, you can choose to have that certificate accepted automatically by selecting the Always trust content from this publisher check box.

So a digital certificate is an electronic attachment applied to a program, database, or other electronic document. The digital certificate identifies the person or entity that published it and the date and time that it was published. The certificate can also identify the purpose of the certificate and/or the purpose of the program, database, or electronic document to which it applies.

Therefore, a digital signature is a means to apply a digital ...