Step by step
- 01
The medium is different
Wet signing leaves an original mark on physical paper. Electronic signing records an action or mark in an electronic document or service.
- 02
Handwriting is optional electronically
An electronic signature may be drawn, typed, clicked, or represented by an image of handwriting. Looking handwritten does not make the electronic copy a wet signature.
- 03
Evidence comes from the whole process
The file, delivery history, account controls, audit information, surrounding agreement, and preserved originals can all matter. The visible mark is only one part.
- 04
The requester sets the practical requirement
Some organizations accept a simple electronic mark; others require wet ink, identity verification, or certificate-backed signing. Follow the instructions for that exact document.
Avoid the common wording trap
- Wet signature means ink on physical paper.
- A scanned wet signature is still an electronic image when placed in a PDF.
- Do not assume every electronic method meets every formal requirement.
Questions
Is a photo of my handwritten signature still handwritten?
It shows your handwriting, but the file is an electronic image rather than the original ink mark.
Is an electronic signature always a digital signature?
No. Digital signatures are a cryptographic subset; electronic signatures cover a broader range of electronic signing actions.
Which is more acceptable?
There is no universal answer. The document owner, transaction type, and applicable rules determine what is accepted.