What does a proper signature or seal represent in the context of authentication?

A proper signature or seal serves as a representation of authentication by confirming that a document is genuine and official. In legal and formal contexts, signatures and seals are used as a means of validation, indicating that the party who has signed or sealed the document acknowledges its content and agrees to its terms. This authentication is critical for establishing trust and credibility in transactions, agreements, and official documents, as it provides assurance to all parties involved that the document has not been tampered with and that it carries the authority it purports to represent.

In contrast, options that focus on encryption, access denial, or transaction processing speed do not directly relate to the function of a signature or seal as an authentication mechanism. Digital encryption involves encoding data to prevent unauthorized access and is distinct from the role of signatures and seals. Similarly, denying access to unauthorized users pertains to security measures rather than the authentication of documents. Lastly, while expediting transaction processing is important in many contexts, it is not the primary purpose of a signature or seal, which fundamentally aims to confirm the authenticity and legitimacy of a document.