How to Combine Electronic and Digital Signatures in a PDF
Question details
The user needs to know how to collect a handwritten electronic signature from a customer and subsequently protect the PDF document against future modifications using a digital signature.
- Product
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Collecting customer signatures on forms via a signature pad while ensuring the final document's integrity and preventing tampering.
- Observed behavior
- The company wants to apply both a drawn signature for visual consent and a certificate-based digital signature to cryptographically lock the file.
Ensure that all form fields are completely filled out and the drawn signature is placed correctly before applying the digital certificate, as locking the document will prevent any further edits.
Apply the Electronic Signature First, Followed by the Digital Signature
Capture the drawn electronic signature first to indicate consent, then finalize the document with a certificate-based digital signature to lock it.
An electronic signature (such as a drawn signature from a pad) confirms a user's intent to sign, but it does not cryptographically secure the document against edits. A digital signature, on the other hand, uses a trusted certificate to lock the file and verify its integrity. Because applying a digital signature locks the file, you must always add the electronic signature first.
Open the PDF document, navigate to the Insert or Fill & Sign tab, and use the signature tool to capture or import the customer's drawn signature from the pad.
Review the document to ensure all form fields, checkboxes, and necessary information are fully completed.
Navigate to the Protect tab on the top ribbon and select the Digital Signature or Sign Document option.
Select your trusted digital certificate, check the option to lock the document after signing, and apply the signature to secure the PDF.
Sign and Secure PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
WPS Office features a robust PDF editor that empowers you to effortlessly capture electronic signatures and apply cryptographic digital signatures, ensuring your business forms remain authentic and tamper-proof.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF form you need to sign.
- 2. Insert Electronic Signature: Go to the 'Insert' tab, click 'Sign', and create or apply the drawn signature.
- 3. Apply Digital Signature: Switch to the 'Protect' tab and select 'Digital Signature'.
- 4. Lock the Document: Choose your digital certificate, select the option to lock the document against modifications, and click 'Sign'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an electronic signature and a digital signature?
An electronic signature is a digital representation of a handwritten signature used to capture user consent. A digital signature is an advanced cryptographic mechanism backed by a trusted digital certificate that secures the document and proves it has not been altered since it was signed.
Can I edit a PDF after a digital signature is applied?
If the digital signature is configured to lock the document upon signing, no further edits can be made. To make changes, the document would need to be unsigned or the signature cleared by the authorized owner.
Does entering a PIN code count as a digital signature?
No. A PIN code is simply a local security measure used to protect your signing credential, smart card, or signature pad. It does not cryptographically bind to the document itself to create a recognized digital signature.
