CDOC File – What is .cdoc file and how to open it?

CDOC Files: A Secure Format for Electronic Documents

A CDOC file is a digitally signed electronic document that has been encrypted for secure distribution. It was developed by RIA, an Estonian software development company. CDOC files are commonly used in Estonia for the electronic signing of contracts, official documents, and other sensitive information.

CDOC files utilize the DigiDoc file format, which encapsulates the original document, as well as the digital signature, metadata, and other information. The encryption layer ensures the confidentiality and integrity of the document, preventing unauthorized access or modification. By using CDOC files, parties can exchange documents securely and verify their authenticity remotely.

Opening CDOC Files with DigiDoc Client

A CDOC file, an acronym for “Encrypted DigiDoc File,” is a digital document secured with a cryptographic signature and encryption. To open a CDOC file, it is necessary to use the DigiDoc Client software, developed by the Estonian Information System Authority (RIA). The DigiDoc Client is free to download and install, and it is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

Once the DigiDoc Client is installed, users can open a CDOC file by double-clicking on it. The DigiDoc Client will automatically verify the digital signature and decrypt the file, allowing users to view and interact with its contents. If the digital signature is invalid or if the file has been tampered with, the DigiDoc Client will display an error message and prevent the file from opening.

Alternative Methods for Opening CDOC Files

In addition to the DigiDoc Client, there are a few alternative methods for opening CDOC files. However, these methods are generally less secure and are not recommended for handling sensitive documents. One option is to use a third-party tool like the OpenDigiDoc utility, which allows users to extract the contents of a CDOC file without verifying the digital signature. Another option is to convert the CDOC file to a different format, such as PDF or DOCX, using a specialized file conversion tool. However, it is important to note that these methods may compromise the security of the document and should be used with caution.

CDOC File Format

CDOC files, short for Encrypted DigiDoc Files, are a proprietary file format created by RIA, an Estonian software development company. They are used to store digital documents in an encrypted form, providing enhanced security for sensitive information. CDOC files utilize the OpenDocument XML (ODF) format, an open-source file format for storing office documents, and encrypt the ODF content using industry-standard encryption algorithms. This combination ensures that the document’s contents remain confidential even if the file falls into the wrong hands.

Usage of CDOC Files

CDOC files play a crucial role in secure document exchange and storage. They are commonly used in government agencies, financial institutions, and other organizations that handle sensitive data. By encrypting digital documents with a CDOC extension, organizations can protect confidential information from unauthorized access, such as trade secrets, financial records, and personal data. CDOC files can be securely stored on local computers, cloud storage systems, or shared with authorized recipients via email or other communication channels. The encryption provided by CDOC ensures that only authorized parties with the correct decryption key can access the document’s contents.

Other Extensions