(February 9, 2001) According to a notice received by our office, Governor George H. Ryan has announced that the State of Illinois will be issuing over one million digital identifications (digital IDs) over the next 18 months, to individuals and businesses wishing to electronically transact business with the state. According to Governor Ryan, the State has selected Entrust Technologies to supply the Public Key Infrastructure-based technology, which will secure electronic transactions conducted among state agencies, individuals, and companies. This technology is increasingly being used to ensure secure communications of confidential information and data across the Internet. We will advise of further details, as they become known. We have been in contact with Entrust representatives, who will keep us posted.

For more information on electronic documents, electronic signatures, and digital IDs, as well as details and links regarding Public Key Infrastructure, please visit our Web site page on the subject