Electronic Signature
A general term for any electronic expression of intent to sign, including handwritten signature images and clicking an acceptance button. Its legal validity is recognized in most countries, for example under the United States ESIGN Act and the European Union eIDAS regulation.
Core Facts
Timeline (last 90 days)
Electronic signatures are not applicable to all documents—wills, certain real estate transactions, and specific judicial proceeding documents still generally require paper signing or notarization.
Online PDF signing tools generate electronic signature images (embedding handwritten strokes into the PDF as an image), and in scenarios requiring legal effect, the other party may require a digital signature or third-party evidence preservation.
Electronic signature is a broader concept, and any way of expressing signing intent in electronic form can be included in it, including clicking to agree, typing a name, or inserting a signature image.
Different countries and regions have different degrees of legal recognition for electronic signatures.
A legally binding electronic signature typically requires verifiable signer identity, a complete record of signing intent, document tampering protection, and an auditable activity log.
All Facts (5)
A legally binding electronic signature typically requires verifiable signer identity, a complete record of signing intent, document tampering protection, and an auditable activity log.
65%UnverifiedElectronic signatures are not applicable to all documents—wills, certain real estate transactions, and specific judicial proceeding documents still generally require paper signing or notarization.
50%UnverifiedOnline PDF signing tools generate electronic signature images (embedding handwritten strokes into the PDF as an image), and in scenarios requiring legal effect, the other party may require a digital signature or third-party evidence preservation.
50%UnverifiedElectronic signature is a broader concept, and any way of expressing signing intent in electronic form can be included in it, including clicking to agree, typing a name, or inserting a signature image.
50%UnverifiedDifferent countries and regions have different degrees of legal recognition for electronic signatures.
50%