Learning how to sign documents on Android is convenient and easy, reducing paperwork and helping you enhance your file credibility.

Signing documents on Android is convenient because you can do it anywhere, no computer or printer needed.

In this article, we will present you with 

the easiest way to add a digital signature on Android

, discuss the benefits of this method, and explain how to solve common issues that may arise during the process. We’ll show you how to sign documents on Android using 

, a secure online tool that supports PDFs, Word files, images, and more.

How to Sign Documents on Android with PDF.net

To sign documents on Android with PDF.net, you need to visit our website, upload your file, create and position a signature, and download the new document version. It’s a 

 of signing PDFs without printing on Android, and it is also available in other text and image formats.

Let’s learn more about the signing process:

#1. Open the Website and Upload Your Document

, click the drop-down menu on the top-right, and choose the signing tool. Tap the 

 and select the document from your storage. Our software also supports formats such as DOC, DOCX, JPG, and PNG.

 your signature, as well as adjust its size, style (available for typed signatures), and color using the toolbar. These options automatically appear on the screen once you add a signature.

 and tap the signature to select it. You can then move the signature anywhere on your document to position it.

Once you’re satisfied with your signature and its position, you can save your file by tapping the 

 button in the top-right corner. The download process will start automatically after this and last for several seconds.

You should sign documents on Android because this process is 

. Also, signing documents electronically on Android means fewer physical copies and paperwork.

; all you need is this type of device and a reliable signing tool. Moreover, the process is not complicated, as you can type your name or handwrite your signature with your finger or using a stylus, as well as add a ready-made signature from your storage.

In addition, adding signatures electronically

, as you can have the same types of physical documents and signatures in a digital form. This is both eco-friendly and suitable for long-distance collaboration.

Lastly, signing documents on mobile or tablet devices is as legitimate as adding a traditional or 

. Even though they are not identical to traditional ones, 

if created according to specific standards (consent, identity verification, etc.).

3 Tips For Creating Secure Digital Signatures

Creating secure digital signatures requires paying special attention to the software and network type you use, as well as to safety standards that ensure the signature's protection and validity.

Choosing reliable electronic signature apps for Android is one of the most important aspects of having secure signatures. This is because not all signing tools allow you to meet all the legal signature criteria.

Specifically, what you should be looking for are online mobile tools or apps that create an e-signature while ensuring the signer’s 

Plus, you should also use high-end apps for digital signatures, featuring 

 elements such as audit trails, mathematical algorithms, 

, and timestamps. Even though electronic and digital signatures differ in some respects, both can be legitimate 

Public Wi-Fi networks are a common threat to users’ devices and data, as they are not well protected. Obviously, you should avoid such a network type when creating electronic signatures since you risk getting malware, data theft, or your signing attempt resulting in an error.

private internet connection or a virtual private network (VPN)

. Also, your internet connection should be stable and have a decent upload and download speed.

 is a good layer of protection, regardless of whether you have an online or a mobile app account. This safety protocol implies confirming your login process by receiving an SMS or email code and typing it into the login field.

This way, even if someone knows your sign-in password, they cannot access your account without verification, meaning that 

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Signing PDFs on Android

Signing documents on Android may not always be smooth, as there may appear app, file compatibility, and signature creation problems. Let’s examine the 

Your electronic files can take various formats, some of which the signer tools may not support. To prevent this, you can 

convert your file to a widely used format

 (e.g., Word, PDF, JPG) and use designated software (e.g., Android PDF signing apps) to add a signature.

Even more, if you already have a file with a supported signature format, but prefer a different one, you can also transform your document to a format that suits you better. For instance, if your preferred format is PDF, you can 

Receiving the error message saying that the app has stopped working will interrupt your signing process. There are many reasons why this can happen, but you can try the most common ways to resolve it, including:

Using another app verified on Google Play

Another, not-so-common reason for app crashes can be using oversized files. If the app cannot load your file, it may completely shut down, or your device may automatically turn off the Android process. To avoid this, you can 

If you cannot see your signature after signing documents on Android, you should

 and see if you did everything correctly. This is because you may forget to save the signature or accidentally tap the undo button before downloading your file.

Also, some online signature tools and apps allow you to add a signature but not save it unless you have 

. Additionally, the same signature scenario can also happen if you use low-quality signing software.

, thinking that it’s a standard one, but you may not see it on your file; you can only check its presence via metadata. In such cases, you can remove it and use a visible one instead, or keep it after ensuring that it is there.

Sign Documents on Android Seamlessly with PDF.net

 to your PDF, Word, and image-based documents easily on PDF.net. No matter which Android phone or tablet you use, you can access our online 

 and use simple but highly secure tools to sign your files with zero hassle.

 before and after adding signatures. For instance, if you receive a notification that your Word, image, or PDF file size limit is surpassed after signing the document, you can use the compression software to resize the document.

handy tools, and get valuable information that can simplify many PDF editing-related processes

To make a signature in Android, you can use an 

. All you need to do is upload your file, select the signer tool, create your signature, and place it on your document, after which you can download it.

Yes, it is safe to sign PDFs on your phone, but only if you use secure software. For instance, PDF.net provides 

 with equal legal force as traditional ones.

#3. What file formats can I sign using PDF.net?

 file formats using PDF.net. Additionally, if you have a file in a specific format but want to change it, you can use other tools we offer to convert it to your preferred format.

How to Sign Documents on Android (PDFs, Word, and More)

Explore the key differences between electronic and digital signatures—security, regulations, usage, and how to choose the right one.

The difference between electronic and digital signatures is that the former is

, while the latter involves more elements and advanced security measures.

There’s been an ongoing debate about whether a digital signature is the same as an electronic signature, and the answer to that is no. While it may be easy to mix up these two terms (electronic vs. digital), the difference between the two signature types is significant.

Knowing how these signatures differ can help you choose the right type and sign your documents properly. Let’s get started!

The key difference between electronic and digital signatures includes 

E-signatures are simpler than digital signatures—you can add them using text or PDF editors, whereas you need software with Public Key Infrastructure for digital ones.

Both signatures are valid in various regions around the globe; electronic ones are more common in the US, whereas digital signatures are more widespread in Europe and India.

Most regulatory acts demand digital signatures for more confidential files (e.g., wills and investments) and e-signatures for risk-free documents (e.g., time-tracking company statements).

Electronic signatures are marks on documents presented in an electronic form. Their purpose is to show a signer’s consent to specific document stipulations, offering a modern alternative to the traditional 

Before becoming officially legal, such signatures were used in the 19th century in telegraphed messages, mainly for signed autographs. As technology progressed, they have become easier to create and have obtained two main forms:

—a common example of an electronic signature, which you can create by typing your name using a text document reader and positioning it within a file.

—you can sign a document with it either by using a special font that looks like handwriting or by signing your file manually, scanning the signature, and placing it within the document.

Due to their nature, electronic signatures are not highly secure, as adding them does not involve special safety protocols. This further means that e-signatures 

. For instance, redacting PDFs or Word files will delete their signature, which is one of the many ways to 

 and whether merely typing your name is an electronic signature. The answer to that question is yes. Specifically, this way of document signing is

 of the most widespread international regulations.

Digital signatures are highly secure document elements by which a signer officially agrees to specific conditions. They ensure the signer’s identity (using 

) and that the document remains intact during and after the signing process.

Firstly, you can create a digital signature using software with 

 or mathematical algorithms and a timestamp.

Then, the entire document undergoes encryption, which makes it 

 without decrypting it first. During encryption, private and public keys are generated. The signer encrypts the file with the private key and shares the public key with the receiver to decrypt it. Together, encryption and decryption make 

In addition to cryptography, digital signatures are based on 

, a set of processes and regulations that enable encryption and document signing.

PKI involves digital certificates, providing security by recognizing

. With such certificates, you can secure your WiFi, Virtual Private Network (VPN), and other types of connections, web pages, or systems that support multi-factor authentication (MFA).

A digital signature isn’t about handwriting or typing, it’s defined by the use of cryptographic keys and digital certificates. Typing a name or using a stylus 

, but unless it’s backed by PKI, it’s still an 

Electronic vs. Digital Signatures: Critical Differences

There are many differences between an electronic and a digital signature, as they imply different 

usage, security levels, and regulatory requirements

Let’s take a closer look at these electronic and digital signature differences:

One of the main differences between electronic and digital signatures lies in their security levels and protocols.

As said, electronic signatures do not feature any high-end safety measures, and you can edit or remove them. If you want to secure your files further, you can opt for a file format that allows for additional protection layers (e.g., PDF).

password-protect PDFs or encrypt PDF documents 

to ensure that only the receiver can access and use the file. Similarly, you can prevent modification by making your PDFs non-editable.

With digital signatures, you won’t have to use additional tools to secure your documents, as they come with built-in features such as 

encryption, audit trails, and cryptography

. This means that no one but you and the file recipient can access it, let alone alter it.

Lastly, another outstanding feature of digital signatures is automatic identity verification, which is not an integral part of electronic signatures. This feature detects a user’s IP address and tracks their activity (typing, cursor movement, etc.) using audit trails, ensuring that the signer is who they say they are.

Additional differences between electronic and digital signatures, besides security, are 

. The main reason is the complexity of the signature and the services you can get from both.

For example, you can find tools for creating e-signatures almost anywhere (text and PDF online and offline readers and editors). On the other hand, only designated software can make digital signatures.

While e-signature tools may be easier to find, the signatures you can create with them are not as secure as the ones you can get using digital signature software. This further means that digital signatures are less affordable than electronic ones.

Finally, most users find it equally easy to create these signatures. This is because both of them require you to know how to use a text or a 

. The only extra step is that you need to streamline cryptography (encryption and decryption) for digital signatures.

We can also find electronic and digital signature differences by examining regulatory compliance and the featured

For instance, most industries (e.g., healthcare, legal, and finance) in the USA 

. Yet, such signatures must fulfill specific criteria—the use of audit trails, showing the user’s intent, consent, and record association.

On the other hand, the same industries in the European Union (EU) 

. Obviously, signing documents this way does not entail the additional above-mentioned security layers that e-signatures demand.

Additionally, here is a set of preferences regarding the use of the two signatures for particular documents on the global level:

Legal Framework for Electronic and Digital Signatures

There is a minor difference between electronic and digital signatures in terms of legal framework usage. Regardless, it is important to know which acts regulate them and how each regulation is relevant for 

Let’s examine these regulations in detail:

Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act

, or the ESIGN Act, was introduced in 2000. Together with the 

 (UETA), issued in 1999, these two are the main acts regulating the use of electronic and digital signatures.

, with the former having Federal law jurisdiction and the latter working under State law.

Officially, these two acts define e-signatures as an 

 attached to a record and executed with the signing intention. ESIGN and UETA treat digital signatures as a 

, but they don’t specify cryptographic methods. However, in practice, digital signatures offer greater security due to the use of encryption, certificates, and PKI.

Interestingly, the UETA and ESIGN Act state that it is necessary to use e-signatures when signing official documents. At the same time, they allow for digital signature usage but do not regard it as necessary for any documents.

This may be the only difference between electronic and digital signatures, considering the two major US data regulation acts.

Non-US regions and countries also have regulatory acts that 

validate and control the use of electronic and digital signatures

Let’s examine the top four international regulations and how they relate to signing documents:

When to Use Electronic vs. Digital Signatures


You should use electronic signatures for internal processes and low-risk documents, whereas digital signatures are more suitable for high-security situations and long-term validity.

Let’s learn more about the use of these signatures:

Businesses and other professionals use e-signatures for 

 such as offer letters or non-disclosure agreements. Additionally, companies and various institutions use electronic signatures to regulate internal affairs.

For instance, the HR sector in a company may use this signature for timesheets, helping them track employee time and manage approvals. Furthermore, job offers, signings for IT equipment, and similar policies require e-signatures.

In the medical industry, you can sign files that are non-sensitive (they do not reveal specific medical conditions or treatments), like 

. Finally, you can find this signature type in consumer documents, such as the ones enforcing guarantees and warranties.

Given the numerous applications across various industries, knowing 

how to properly create an electronic signature

 has become an essential professional skill.

As high-risk documents require high protection, digital signatures are present in various industries with such files. For example, you must use this signature for

, including loan agreements (business, car, and home loans).

 demand digital signatures, some of which are government bids and tenders, which users can sign on e-tender platforms. Another frequent type of government document where this signature ensures integrity is an eProcurement contract, mostly used in the public sector.

Similarly, you can use digital signatures for intellectual property or when making court filings (e.g., court submissions). Lastly, digital signatures are standardly used for medical records, such as prescriptions and diagnoses, as these files are highly confidential.

As these two signatures are easy to mix up, there are many misconceptions revolving around their 

Let’s analyze and debunk the most common myths:

Electronic and digital signatures differ in various aspects and 

. The misconception that they are identical probably arose because the terms ‘electronic’ and ‘digital’ have similar meanings.

Another reason is that documents in different formats can have both types of signatures. For instance, a PDF signature can be a digital signature or an electronic one, depending on the signing tool you use to create it.

Plus, an example of a digital signature can include typed text, which is also one of the ways to create an e-signature. Yet, the

surrounding signature creation are what set these apart.

Sometimes, confusion may also arise between 

. While you can add both using a Word reader and a PDF watermark tool, watermarks are meant for copyright protection and do not provide consent to any document stipulations.

Electronic signatures may not be as secure as digital signatures, but they can boast 

. We know that e-signatures are easier to tamper with or remove (e.g., by flattening PDFs or Word files). However, with additional protection layers, users can prevent this and other incredulities that this signature type may bring.

As mentioned, you can password-protect your files for secure sharing and disable editing to prevent modifications. To maximize the credibility of the signing process, you can ensure the following:

Consent (with an e-signature disclosure, such as UETA)

Identity verification (video call, ID, or PIN code via sms)

"Digital Signatures Work Without Internet"

Online and offline functionality is the significant difference between electronic and digital signatures. Specifically, you can add e-signatures using offline programs, which is not possible for digital ones.

This is because mathematical algorithms and hash functions cannot work offline. This further means that you 

cannot encrypt your files or create private and public keys

Therefore, before trying to add a digital signature to your document, you and the receiver must have a stable internet connection.

Although various acts validate non-traditional signatures, their level of validity depends on the 

document type and industry, as well as regulatory differences

eIDAS Act in Europe and the IT Act in India

. The former allows for e-signatures but considers them less valid than digital ones. The latter demands the use of digital signatures for the majority of files and industries. It also regards e-signatures as valid only under specific conditions (proof of consent, integrity, and identity).

In contrast, electronic signatures are universally accepted in the US, while using digital signatures is possible but not obligatory.

Globally, more trustworthy documents (e.g., loans and medical records) demand more secure digital signatures. Conversely, e-signatures are preferred for low-risk files (e.g., internal company regulations).

Sometimes, the security difference between electronic and digital signatures is irrelevant, as you cannot use either (e.g., signing POAs in India).

Sign Your Documents Seamlessly with PDF.net

PDF.net offers an easy and effective way to sign documents digitally. Our 

 allows you to type your name using standard and the ‘handwriting’ font, or upload and add an image-based signature. All signatures are valid and have the same 

Since using our software is the simplest way to sign PDFs digitally, you can also 

In addition, there are various other ways to 

Differences Between Electronic & Digital Signature + Usage Tips

Yes, it’s safe to email documents — if you encrypt them, use strong passwords, and follow expert tips for protection.

It is safe to send documents via email, but only if you follow certain safety protocols. Specifically, sending documents via email safely involves security measures such as encryption, password protection, and two-factor authentication.

You can streamline some of these protection processes using the built-in email service features and online tools for document protection, such as our PDF editor tool. That said, let’s explore the top six 

email safety tips and learn how to put them into practice

What Type of Documents Can You Send Via Email

You can send various types of documents via email, including 

. For instance, you can share images in the standard digital formats, either as an attachment or in the 

Additionally, text documents are the most common file type shared via email. You can send 

, and many other document versions using this service. Finally, email services also allow you to share archived files in the most well-known formats, which you can 

Each of these categories features numerous file variants and formats, including the following:

, DOC, DOCX, TXT, ODT, ODS, ODP, PPT, PPTX, XLS, XLSX)

Additionally, there are other sorts of supported documents, but users rarely send them due to safety concerns. These include HTML and 

Common Risks of Sending Documents via Email

Specific risks, such as email interceptions, phishing, spoofing, or using unsecured attachments, can impact safety when sending documents via email.

Let’s take a closer look at these potential threats:

Email interception is a common way people 

. This process can occur in the initial (sending) phase, final (receiving) stage, or in between. For instance, two people may want to use email as a file-sharing service.

Before one of them sends a document, they communicate about setting the password for protection. A third party intercepts this conversation and gets the file and the password before the recipient. This individual sends a random file to the recipient while 

Phishing attempts are fraudulent activities where the attacker sends messages that 

falsely appear to be from legitimate sources

. In such cases, you don’t need to worry whether it is safe to send your document via email but focus on detecting this type of activity.

If you receive a suspicious file or message asking you for money, your bank account, or other personal information, you should double-check the sender’s email. If the sender claims to be a member of a company or organization, we recommend examining the 

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