Fix Electronic Signature Showing as Unreadable Characters in PDF
Question details
The user needs to fix a certificate-based electronic signature that displays garbled or unreadable characters instead of legible text.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat / Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Viewing or applying a certificate-based digital signature on a PDF document.
- Observed behavior
- The text within the electronic signature block renders as unreadable symbols or garbled characters rather than standard text.
Before modifying signature settings, ensure your PDF software is fully updated to the latest version. This helps rule out temporary bugs related to font rendering and digital certificate validation.
Edit the Signature Appearance and Text Properties
Adjust the text properties and font settings of your digital ID appearance to correct the unreadable characters.
Unreadable characters in digital signatures usually occur because the default font selected for the signature appearance is corrupted, unsupported, or missing. Modifying the text properties in the preferences menu can quickly resolve this rendering issue.
Launch your PDF application (Acrobat or Reader). Navigate to the 'Edit' menu at the top and select 'Preferences'.
In the left-hand pane of the Preferences window, scroll down and click on 'Signatures'.
Under the 'Creation & Appearance' section on the right, click the 'More' button to open the detailed settings.
Locate the 'Appearances' box, select the specific signature profile that is having issues, and click the 'Edit' button.
Check the selected font and text properties under the 'Configure Text' section. Ensure a standard, universally readable font is applied, then click 'OK' to save your changes.
Sign and Manage PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
Avoid complicated signature formatting and font rendering issues by using WPS Office. Our built-in PDF tool provides a streamlined, user-friendly way to add, manage, and validate electronic signatures securely.
- 1. Open your PDF Document: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF file you need to sign.
- 2. Access the Signature Tool: Navigate to the 'Fill & Sign' or 'Protect' tab on the top ribbon and select 'PDF Signature'.
- 3. Create Your Signature: Choose to type your name using built-in standard fonts, draw it, or insert a clear image of your handwritten signature.
- 4. Apply to the Document: Click anywhere on the document to securely place the signature, adjust its size, and save the file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my PDF signatures suddenly appear as symbols or wingdings?
This typically happens when the specific font used for the signature appearance is uninstalled, corrupted, or unsupported by your system or PDF viewer. The application then defaults to a symbol font, making the text unreadable.
Can I use an image of my handwritten signature instead of generated text?
Yes, most PDF applications, including WPS Office, allow you to upload an image of your signature in the appearance settings. Using an image bypasses system text and font rendering issues entirely.
Will updating my PDF software fix the signature font issue?
Often, yes. Software updates contain bug fixes for font rendering and digital certificate validation. Keeping your application up to date is highly recommended for maintaining document security and proper display.
