Section 37 of ITA, 2000 : Section 37: Suspension Of Digital Signature Certificate

Explanation using Example

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where Mr. Sharma is a subscriber of a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) issued by a Certifying Authority (CA). Mr. Sharma suspects that his DSC has been compromised and could be misused. He immediately contacts the CA and requests the suspension of his DSC. As per Section 37(1)(a)(i) of The Information Technology Act, 2000, the CA suspends Mr. Sharma's DSC promptly.

In another scenario, the CA receives credible information that a DSC issued to a company has been used in fraudulent activities. The CA, considering the public interest, decides to suspend the company's DSC under Section 37(1)(b).

However, in both cases, as per Section 37(2), the suspension cannot exceed fifteen days without giving Mr. Sharma and the company an opportunity to be heard. Once the DSC is suspended, the CA is required to inform the subscriber about the suspension as per Section 37(3).