How to Fix Bad Parameter Error with Multiple Signatures in Acrobat DC
Question details
The user is unable to add a second digital signature to a PDF and is looking for a way to bypass the 'Bad parameter' and 'Cgetsigningparam-4000' errors.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat DC
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to add a personal digital signature to a PDF form that already contains a digital signature from another individual.
- Observed behavior
- The application fails to apply the signature and displays a 'Bad parameter' or 'Cgetsigningparam-4000' error message.
Before altering your application settings, try applying a digital signature to a completely different, unsigned PDF file to determine whether the issue is specific to the document or affects your entire software installation.
Disable the Modern User Interface for Signing
Switching your software back to the classic signature interface often resolves hidden compatibility issues with previously signed PDF forms.
Acrobat's modern signing interface sometimes conflicts with older digital ID configurations or specific document formatting applied by the first signer. Reverting to the legacy interface bridges this compatibility gap.
Launch Adobe Acrobat DC. Click on the 'Edit' menu at the top left of the screen, and select 'Preferences' from the drop-down menu.
In the Preferences dialog box, scroll down the 'Categories' list on the left-hand panel and click on 'Signatures'.
Under the 'Creation & Appearance' section on the right, click the 'More...' button to open the detailed signature settings.
Locate and uncheck the box labeled 'Use modern user interface for signing and Digital ID configuration'.
Click 'OK' on both dialog boxes to apply the changes. Restart Adobe Acrobat DC and attempt to sign the document again.
Add Multiple Digital Signatures Easily with WPS Office
Avoid complex configuration errors by using WPS Office to insert and manage multiple digital signatures in your PDF documents smoothly. WPS Office provides a streamlined, error-free environment for secure document handling.
- 1. Open the PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document that requires multiple signatures.
- 2. Navigate to the Protect Tab: Click on the 'Protect' or 'Fill & Sign' tab located in the top ribbon menu.
- 3. Select PDF Signature: Click on 'PDF Signature' to create a new digital signature or import your existing certificate.
- 4. Place Your Signature: Click the designated signature field or any empty space on the document to apply your signature securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get a 'Bad parameter' error only on certain PDF documents?
This error usually occurs when the specific PDF contains form fields, restrictive permissions, or previous signatures created with older protocols that conflict with the application's modern signing interface.
Can I prevent others from signing a PDF after I apply my signature?
Yes. When applying a digital signature, you can check the option to 'Lock document after signing' in the signature dialog box. This secures the document against any further edits or additional signatures.
What should I do if disabling the modern interface doesn't fix the Cgetsigningparam-4000 error?
If the issue persists, try repairing your software installation from the Help menu. Alternatively, the document itself may be corrupted or securely locked; contact the original sender to request a fresh, unlocked version of the PDF.
