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Electronic signature vs. digital signature

Understand the practical difference between a visible electronic signature and a certificate-based digital signature before signing a PDF.

Quick answer

Electronic signature is a broad term for showing agreement electronically. A digital signature usually means a cryptographic method that can verify document integrity and often signer identity. They are related, but not interchangeable.

PDF SIGN & SCANA visible handwritten electronic signature placed on a PDF in PDF Sign & Scan

Step by step

  1. 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.

    Electronic signature. A visible handwritten electronic signature placed on a PDF in PDF Sign & Scan
    PDF SIGN & SCAN / 01
  2. 02

    Digital signature

    This usually uses cryptography and a certificate to make later document changes detectable and to bind signing credentials to the file.

    Digital signature. A visible handwritten electronic signature placed on a PDF in PDF Sign & Scan
    PDF SIGN & SCAN / 02
  3. 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.

    What PDF Sign & Scan creates. A visible handwritten electronic signature placed on a PDF in PDF Sign & Scan
    PDF SIGN & SCAN / 03
  4. 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.

    What to use. A visible handwritten electronic signature placed on a PDF in PDF Sign & Scan
    PDF SIGN & SCAN / 04

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.

Your real signature, ready when the PDF arrives.

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