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Electronic signatures\u2014or e-signatures\u2014are everywhere. We click \u201cAgree\u201d or type our name on a device to open bank accounts, purchase vehicles, rent apartments, or accept online terms. Before you sign electronically, here\u2019s what to know.<\/p>\n
An e-signature can be as valid as a handwritten one, but only if certain rules are met. Businesses must get your consent<\/strong> to use electronic records. As well, they must prove you can open and read them.\u00a0 Often a test file is sent to the consumer to confirm receipt. The business must also inform the consumer of the following:<\/p>\n These safeguards exist so that consumers are not tricked into signing documents that may be difficult to see online or save.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The term “e-signature<\/strong>” is more than a digital image of your written signature. The law defines \u201celectronic signature\u201d broadly. It is any sound, symbol, or process<\/strong> used to show intent to sign a document. E-signatures can be:<\/p>\n When you sign electronically, the system stores \u201cmetadata\u201d, or hidden information that proves authenticity of the electronic document. Metadata Metadata can even show whether a signature was forged\u2014like proving it came from a location you had never been or device you never used.<\/p>\n Be cautious.<\/strong><\/p>\n E-signatures are fast and convenient. Used correctly, they are safe and legally binding. However, salespeople are trained to guide consumers in the purchase process and make them feel comfortable to get an e-signature on the documents they need.<\/p>\n Do your due diligence BEFORE e-signing![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.consumerslaw.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/agreeing-to-signing-electronic-document-1-300x200.jpg\")
1. The option to receive paper copies
\n2. The option to withdraw consent at anytime, and explain how to do it.
\n3. Whether consent applies to one deal or all future ones.
\n4. How to update contact information.
\n5. The type of device or software is needed to receive communications.<\/p>\nWhat is an “E-Signature”?\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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The key is intent<\/strong>\u2014you must intend to sign the electronic contract that your signature is applied to. But some companies may forge or copy and paste e-signatures to contracts that were never approved by the consumer. Forging an e-signature is illegal, just like forging a signature in ink on paper.<\/p>\nWhat \u201cMetadata\u201d Reveals<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\ncan show:<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.consumerslaw.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/metadata-300x200.jpg\")
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Are ink signatures on paper documents still required?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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While e-signatures are legal on many documents, some notices, such as those listed below<\/em>, are required to be delivered in paper form and signed in ink.\u00a0 This is to insure that the person is fully informed and in agreement with the document.<\/p>\n\n
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The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n<\/b>1) Take time to read all documents that are signed.
\n2) Get all questions answered.
\n3) Do not feel pressured to sign.
\n4) Request a paper copy of all documents showing your e-signature.
\n5) Maintain a complete file with all documents, handwritten notes, emails, text and phone messages.<\/p>\nSeek help from a qualified consumer law firm<\/h3>\n
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Was your e-signature forged on a document? Were you tricked into an agreement?