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With multiple ways to perform a digital signature, it's not always clear which option to use when. This recipe aims to assist researchers by providing instructions on the correct way to insert a unique digital signature into a document or pdf.

Prerequisites

1. Secure your own environment.
2. Access to Adobe Acrobat such as with your IU account.

Directions

Note: depending on whether you are opening an installed Adobe program or using the web app, some things may appear slightly different as described or in a different location. 

1. Navigate to Adobe at IU and Log in with your IU account
2. Click on the "Open Creative Cloud" button under the banner, or go to https://creativecloud.adobe.com/cc/ 
3. Click on the Open button for the Acrobat card 
   1. If Acrobat is not visible, use the square dot menu to open the sidebar and navigate to Apps and find Acrobat there 
   2. Note: do not use Acrobat Sign if it is available unless specifically asked by the entity sending the document
4. Use the Adobe Acrobat window that opens up to Upload/Open the file that needs your signature
5. Click on the right side purple "Fill & Sign" button (or navigate to "E-sign" in the toolbar)
   1. Select the "Sign Yourself" button with the pen scribbles icon and select "add signature" 
6. Type your name to be used as a signature in the box that pops up
   1. Alternative: upload a picture of your handwritten signature instead of typing in the box
7. Click "Apply" and you now will have a stamp you can use to place your signature by clicking on the document.

Additional Resources

• Email securemyresearch@iu.edu if you have other questions about secure digital signatures.
• Adobe Creative Cloud at IU.