Tech tip: How to digitally sign a document on a PC, Mac, Android or iPhone
Technology has undoubtedly made many things simpler, but it’s also introduced new worries. Here are five dangerous cybersecurity mistakes you might be making. Scan this list to make sure you’re not putting yourself in danger.
While you’re at it, there’s a chance you’re breaking the law online without realizing it. Downloading movies illegally? Yeah, knock that off. Tap or click for four more ways you might end up in hot water.
One thing that has gotten easier is signing documents. Now you can skip the drive or wait for something to arrive in the mail and sign digitally instead. Here’s how.
First, consider your signature
Even in the digital age, a handwritten signature provides a personal touch. Don’t use your mouse or trackpad. It never looks right.
Instead, sign a piece of paper and save it on your device using your smartphone’s camera or your webcam. You can then import that image into any PDF or other document. Tap or click here for in-depth steps, including the size and ratio to aim for.
Here’s a pro tip: Having two different signatures is a good idea. One is reserved for signing in person and the other for signing electronically.
The two signatures can be pretty much the same. Just modify one with an extra dot or some other subtle variation. This way, if someone ever uses your signature without your permission or knowledge, it’ll be easy to figure out just by looking at it.
One more thing to remember: If you’re signing legal documents, they typically require a secured digital signature using a service such as DocuSign or Adobe Sign.
If you’re using Adobe
Adobe Reader is one of the most common PDF applications out there. There are also Adobe Acrobat DC and Adobe Acrobat Sign that work similarly.
To sign a document, open the PDF and look for the Sign icon in the top toolbar. It looks like the nib of a pen. It should be in the toolbar at the top of the application. You can also go to Tools > Fill & Sign.
15 tech tricks you’ll wish you knew sooner
Most gadgets don’t come with a user manual that spells out every feature. We learn them by doing, when someone spills the beans or asking, “How’d you do that?”
For example, no one thinks to dive into a new router’s settings. The more connected devices you have, the more critical is this step. Tap or click here for a few essential steps to ensure your files, data, and network are safe from hackers and snoops.
Quick tech tip: Scan photos and documents without buying a scanner
With tech, there’s always one more thing you need. It could be one more gadget, one more app, or one more piece of paid software. That’s why I make it my mission to help you get stuff done with what you already have.