5 Common e-Signature Mistakes

Electronic signatures are easy, but making a mistake can invalidate a contract or leak your data.

1. Using Cloud Editors for Sensitive Data

Never upload a W-9, passport scan, or bank document to a "Free PDF Editor". Always use a local-first tool to ensure your data stays on your machine.

2. Incorrect Aspect Ratios

Stretching a signature image so it looks warped can raise flags about document forgery. Use our Aspect Ratio Calculator to size your images correctly.

3. Forgetting the Date

A signature without a date is often legally ambiguous. Always add a date text field next to your signature.

4. Ignoring Metadata

When you generate a PDF, your OS often embeds your full name into the Author field. Check it with our Metadata Inspector.

5. Assuming You Need an Audit Trail

Most basic contracts do not require a costly enterprise audit trail to be legally binding.