Abstract: Exemplary embodiments include methods of handling stored electronic original information objects that have been created by electronically signing information objects by respective authorized users and transfer agents, submitting signed information objects to a trusted repository system, validating the submitted signed information objects by at least testing the integrity of the contents of each signed information object and the validity of the signature of the respective transfer agent, and applying to each validated information object a date-time stamp and a digital signature and authentication certificate of the trusted repository system that is an electronic vault. One method includes the remote signing of electronic documents without the trusted repository ever releasing the electronic original documents and other information objects that are controlled and protected by the trusted repository system.