How to Fix the Same Drawn Signature Appearing for Every Digital ID in Acrobat
Question details
Users experience an issue where the PDF reader applies the same handwritten drawn signature appearance across multiple distinct Digital IDs.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Signing a PDF document using different Digital IDs and expecting distinct handwritten appearances for each.
- Observed behavior
- The application defaults to the most recently used drawn signature appearance, incorrectly displaying the exact same handwritten signature for different certificates.
Ensure you know the exact names of the signature appearances you wish to keep or delete, and verify you have access to the correct Digital IDs before modifying settings.
Delete Saved Signature Appearances in Preferences
Clear the cached or saved signature appearances so the application prompts you to select the correct visual representation when switching certificates.
When creating a Digital ID, you can also create a drawn appearance for it. However, the software automatically remembers and reuses the last visual appearance you selected, regardless of which underlying certificate is currently being used for validation.
Launch your PDF software and press Ctrl+K (Windows) or Cmd+K (Mac) to open the Preferences dialog box.
In the left-hand category pane of the Preferences window, scroll down and click on 'Signatures'.
Under the 'Creation & Appearance' section, click on the 'More...' button to view your saved visuals.
Select the incorrect or duplicated signature appearances from the list and click 'Delete'.
The next time you sign a document, pay attention to the drop-down Options menu in the signing dialog box. Manually select the drawn appearance that correctly corresponds to the specific certificate you are currently using.
Use WPS Office for Reliable PDF Signatures
Avoid confusing signature appearances by using WPS Office. It provides an intuitive interface to easily manage and apply your handwritten signatures to PDF documents without mixing them up.
- 1. Open the PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your target PDF document.
- 2. Navigate to the Sign Tool: Go to the 'Protect' or 'Insert' tab on the top ribbon and click on 'Sign'.
- 3. Create a New Signature: Click 'Create Signature' to draw, type, or upload an image of your signature.
- 4. Apply to Document: Select the correct signature from your list and place it precisely where you need it on the page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I associate a specific drawn signature with a specific Digital ID automatically?
Most PDF readers, including Adobe Acrobat, default to the last used drawn appearance. You usually must manually select the corresponding appearance from the drop-down menu each time you switch certificates.
Why does my digital signature show standard text instead of my drawn graphic?
This happens if the selected signature appearance is set to 'Standard Text' in your signing options. You can change this in the appearance drop-down menu when initiating the digital signature.
Are drawn signatures the same as Digital IDs?
No. A Digital ID is the hidden cryptographic certificate used to mathematically secure and validate the signature, whereas the drawn signature is strictly the visual representation (the image or handwriting) displayed on the page.
