---
type: concept
title: Certificate-based PDF Signatures
tags: [pdf, digital-signatures, pki, adobe-acrobat]
related: [nutzerzertifikate, dfn-pki-zertifikate]
created: 2026-07-01
updated: 2026-07-01
sources: ["output/rz_uni_greifswald_de_support_dokumentation_anleitungen_pdf_formulare_zertifikatb.md"]
---

# Certificate-based PDF Signatures

Certificate-based PDF signatures are a method of digitally signing documents using a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificate to ensure the authenticity of the signer and the integrity of the document content.

## Technical Requirements
To implement these signatures within the university environment, specifically using **Adobe Acrobat** or **Adobe Acrobat Reader**, a [[nutzerzertifikate|User Certificate (Nutzerzertifikat)]] is mandatory. This certificate serves as the digital identity of the user.

## Workflow
The process involves using the digital certificate to apply a cryptographic signature to a PDF file. This allows recipients to:
1. **Verify Authenticity**: Confirm that the document was signed by the holder of the specific user certificate.
2. **Ensure Integrity**: Detect if the document has been altered after the signature was applied.

## Support
Technical issues regarding the application or validation of these signatures are managed by the [[universitatsrechenzentrum-urz]] via the [[groupware]] ticket system or the URZ hotline.
