Electronic signature guides

Answers to the questions people ask before, and while, they sign something online. The legal guides cite their sources and are general information, not legal advice.

• Are electronic signatures legally binding?

  Yes, for most contracts. What the ESIGN Act, UETA, the UK Electronic Communications Act and the EU eIDAS Regulation say, and which documents are excluded.

• How to sign a PDF on Windows or Mac

  Sign a PDF on a computer without printing it: with Preview on a Mac, Microsoft Edge or Acrobat Reader on Windows, or a free browser tool that works anywhere.

• Electronic signature vs digital signature: what is the difference?

  An electronic signature is any electronic mark of intent to sign. A digital signature is a cryptographic one backed by a certificate. When you need which, explained simply.

• How to create an electronic signature

  Make an electronic signature you can use on PDFs and documents: type it in a handwriting style, draw it, or photograph your real one. Free, as a transparent PNG.

• Are electronic signatures legal in Pakistan?

  What the Electronic Transactions Ordinance 2002 says about e-signatures in Pakistan, which documents it excludes, and how to sign contracts online.

• How to sign a PDF on your phone

  Three ways to sign a PDF on an iPhone or Android phone: the iPhone Markup tool, a PDF app, or a free browser tool that works on any phone.