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How to delete the signature in PDF

October 19, 2021
5.4K Views

There are several techniques available for erasing a signature from a PDF document, depending on the tools and software at your disposal.

How to Unsign a PDF in WPS on Mac Or Windows

WPS, short for Writer, Presentation, and Spreadsheets, is a three-key program that comprises WPS Office's office suite. It offers a variety of advantages that streamline document management, foster collaboration, and boost efficiency.

With WPS PDF, you gain access to a comprehensive set of tools and features that simplify tasks such as editing, converting, securing, and collaborating on PDF files. Hence, you can optimize your workflow and seamlessly handle PDF documents, making your work more efficient and effective. It currently supports documents of the type .docx, .ppt, image files, and .xls files.

With WPS Office, you may delete a signature from a PDF file without the aid of any specialized software or technical knowledge. All you need to do is follow the steps given below:

  • Step 1: In the WPS Office, open the PDF file from which you want to delete the signature.

  • Step 2: Select "Signatures" from the "Edit" menu after clicking on it.

  • Step 3: The PDF document will now display every signature that has been inserted. Choose the signature that has to be deleted.

  • Step 4: To remove the signature from the PDF document after selecting it, click the "Delete" option.

  • Step 5: Save your document.

How to Remove a Signature from PDF in Adobe Acrobat on Mac And Windows

On both Mac and Windows, Adobe Acrobat makes removing a signature from a PDF file simple and quick.

  • Step 1: Open the file in Adobe Acrobat.

  • Step 2: Select the "Tools" tab.

  • Step 3: Click on the options "Certificates" and then "Digitally Sign."

  • Step 4: You can choose the signature you want to delete and click "Remove Signature." A popup will display, asking you to confirm that you want to delete the signature.

  • Step 5: The chosen signature will be eliminated from the document once you confirm.

It's vital to remember that doing this will also get rid of the signature's related meta-data and certification status. Therefore, this technique should not be used to change legally binding documents; rather, it should only be used to remove unused or outdated signatures.

Assuming the document is not password-protected, follow these steps to unlock the PDF:

  • Step 1: Download a fresh copy of the PDF file, ensuring that the new unlocking password has been applied.

  • Step 2: Open the downloaded PDF.

  • Step 3: Locate and click on the 'Lock' icon positioned in the top-left corner of the page.

  • Step 4: Look for and select the link called "Permission Details."

  • Step 5: From the drop-down menu labeled "Security Method," choose "No Security."

  • Step 6: Enter the unlock password and click the OK button three times.

How to Remove Digital Signatures in Word on Windows And Mac

Many people and companies often carry out the task of removing digital signatures from Word documents as it ensures the authenticity of the document itself, as well as removes old information.

Fortunately, Word's removal of digital signatures is a rather easy task that can be completed quickly on Mac and Windows operating systems. Follow the steps given below:

  • Step 1: Activate the signature pane in Word and view every signature connected to the document to delete digital signatures from Word on Windows.

  • Step 2: After selecting the signature you want to delete, pick "Remove Signature" from the menu.

  • Step 3: Similar procedures can be used on a Mac, including opening the signature pane and choosing the appropriate signature for deletion.

Printing And Scan the Document

There is another method to answer your query on how to remove a digital signature from a PDF file, even if you don't have access to Adobe Acrobat DC or any other PDF editing software.

This entails physically printing the document, using a rubber or whiteout to remove the signature manually, and then scanning the printed copy back into the computer as a new PDF file. This method works well to eliminate unnecessary signatures from a PDF file without using specialized software, albeit it can take some time and could lower quality.

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Following the Signature's Removal

Saving the Changes

It's crucial to preserve the document changes in a secure area after successfully deleting the signature from your PDF file. To save the file to your computer or a cloud storage service, click "File" and then "Save" or "Save As." It is usually a good idea to save the document as a new version to avoid any misunderstandings or errors.

Verifying the Integrity of The Document

Before signing the paper, ensure the integrity of the content hasn't been jeopardized by the absence of the signature. Using a reputable PDF editing program to check for any formatting flaws or problems is one of the greatest ways to ensure that a document is accurate. Furthermore, you may perform a speedy quality check by scrolling through the page to ensure its readability and visual appeal.

Before Removing Signatures, Take Care

It's crucial to be aware of the potential legal repercussions before removing a signature from a PDF file. Without the right legal authorization, removing a signature can have substantial legal repercussions, including the invalidation of contracts and breach of contract.

Therefore, confirming that the signature is not necessary to comply with any legal obligations or requirements is crucial. Furthermore, if the document was signed electronically, it is crucial to establish the validity and reliability of the electronic signature.

Create a Backup of the PDF File

Before making any changes to the PDF file, including removing a signature, making a copy is usually a good idea. A backup copy of the original document will guarantee that it may be restored to its original state in case of any unexpected errors or issues throughout the editing process.

This is crucial if the PDF file includes important information or data that cannot be lost or harmed while editing. You can work on the paper more easily if you have a backup copy.

How to remove a digital signature from a pdf

Consult a Professional

Removing a signature from a PDF file can be challenging, particularly if there are several signatures or the document is intricate or legally significant. It is advised that you obtain expert counsel from a licensed legal or technical expert if you are unsure of how to proceed with erasing a signature.

They can assist you in navigating any potential legal or technical difficulties and guarantee that the procedure is carried out in line with all relevant rules and laws. The possibility of errors or damage to the document can be reduced by seeking professional counsel, resulting in a full and correct final product.

FAQs

  • How to Sign a PDF Document?

To produce your digital signature, open the PDF in one of these programs and follow the on-screen directions. To create your signature on a piece of blank white paper:

  1. Use a stylus or your computer's mouse.

  2. Save the signature as an image file and upload it to the PDF.

  3. Photograph your handwriting with your computer's camera and then upload it to the PDF.

  4. How Can I Determine Whether a PDF Can Be Signed?

You must ensure that your PDF document qualifies for signing before adding a digital signature. Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Reader and select the Signature Panel to verify this. The phrase "Signed and All signatures are valid" will appear if the paper has previously been signed. If it hasn't been signed, the option to "Place Signature" and the notice "This document is not signed" will be displayed in the Signature Panel.

  • How Do I Determine Whether a PDF Has a Digital Signature of Any Type?

First, you can look for the Signature Panel when you open the document in Adobe Acrobat Reader. If the document has a digital signature, you will see a certificate icon with the signer's name and timestamp. By selecting "Properties" from the context menu when you right-click the document, you may also view its properties.

You may see details about the signer, the certificate used, and the date and time of signing under the "Digital Signatures" tab of the dialogue box. Additionally, you can check the legitimacy of the digital signature using third-party applications like PDF Sign and Seal or DocuSign.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, the procedure of how to remove a signature from PDF files has never been simpler! Without jeopardizing the accuracy of your company records, you can swiftly and effectively erase unnecessary signatures with the appropriate tools and methods.

By following the detailed instructions we've provided, you can ensure that your PDF files are always current and secure and eliminate any extra signatures that might be confusing or cluttered.

Besides, you can easily read, edit, and manage PDF pages on android and convert between PDF and other types of documents with WPS PDF. So, stop waiting and try WPS PDF today for an unforgettable experience!

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.