Step by step
- 01
Electronic signature
This can be a drawn name, a typed mark, a clicked acceptance, or an image of handwriting placed on a document. The surrounding process determines what evidence exists.
- 02
Digital signature
This usually uses cryptography and a certificate to make later document changes detectable and to bind signing credentials to the file.
- 03
What PDF Sign & Scan creates
The app places your visible handwritten electronic signature and flattens it into the exported PDF. It does not issue a certificate, provide an audit trail, or create a cryptographic digital signature.
- 04
What to use
Follow the recipient’s instructions. If they request a named portal, qualified signature, certificate, witness, or identity check, use that process.
Legal note
- Signature rules vary by country, document type, and receiving organization.
- A visible signature image alone does not prove identity or that a file has not changed.
- This guide is practical product information, not legal advice.
Questions
Is a scanned handwritten signature a digital signature?
In everyday speech people may call it digital, but technically it is usually a visible electronic signature image, not a certificate-based digital signature.
Is an electronic signature always legally accepted?
No universal answer applies. Acceptance depends on the jurisdiction, document, parties, and required signing process. Ask the recipient or a qualified local professional when the stakes are high.