Method, apparatus, and program to forward and verify multiple digital signatures in electronic mail

A method for receiving a forwarded message, comprising:

• receiving a message at a computer of a third user, wherein the message was sent from a first user to a second user and subsequently forwarded to the third user, and wherein the message has attached thereto a first digital signature corresponding to the first user and a second digital signature corresponding to the second user;
• verifying the first digital signature and the second digital signature;
• and
• opening the message if the first digital signature and the second digital signature are approved.

A apparatus for receiving a forwarded message, comprising:

• receipt means for receiving a message at a computer of a third user, wherein the message was sent from a first user to a second user and subsequently forwarded to the third user, and wherein the message has attached thereto a first digital signature corresponding to the first user and a second digital signature corresponding to the second user;
• verification means for verifying the first digital signature and the second digital signature;
• and
• opening means for opening the message if the first digital signature and the second digital signature are approved.

A computer program product, in a computer readable medium, for receiving a forwarded message, comprising:

• instructions for receiving a message at a computer of a third user, wherein the message was sent from a first user to a second user and subsequently forwarded to the third user, and wherein the message has attached thereto a first digital signature corresponding to the first user and a second digital signature corresponding to the second user;
• instructions for verifying the first digital signature and the second digital signature;
• and
• instructions for opening the message if the first digital signature and the second digital signature are approved.