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PAdES standard

PAdES, which stands for "PDF Advanced Electronic Signatures," is a set of standards for implementing advanced digital signatures in PDF (Portable Document Format) documents. PAdES is specifically designed to meet the requirements for electronic signatures in the context of European regulations, such as the eIDAS Regulation (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services).

The PAdES standard defines various profiles for different levels of electronic signatures, including:
 

PAdES-BASELINE

  • PAdES-Basic: Provides a basic level of electronic signature functionality.
  • PAdES-Baseline-T: Includes a trusted timestamp to enhance the integrity of the signature.

PAdES-ENHANCED

  • PAdES-Explicit Policy: Specifies a set of policies for signature validation.
  • PAdES-Forms: Addresses the use of signatures in interactive forms within PDF documents.

PAdES-LTV (Long-Term Validation):

  • Focuses on ensuring that signatures remain verifiable over an extended period, addressing the challenges of long-term archival.
     

PAdES standards are aligned with the broader goals of creating a legal framework for electronic signatures, ensuring their validity, integrity, and non-repudiation. These standards help facilitate the use of electronic signatures in a secure and legally recognized manner within PDF documents. PAdES compliance is often important for organizations and systems dealing with digital signatures in the European Union and other regions where similar standards are adopted.

 

PAdES in Addo Sign

Long-term validation

Ensures that the signature remains valid even if the signing certificate expires or is revoked. Addo Sign ensures that signed documents remain valid and verifiable over time by adhering to PAdES standards, which include long-term validation features. Futhermore it is possible to safely store and archive documents within Addo Sign.

Document integrity

Guarantees that the signed PDF document has not been altered after signing. Addo Sign provides an audit trail on the documents with every transaction made. Furthermore, Addo Sign uses digital signatures to guarantee that the signed PDF documents are not altered after signingThis ensures that the document integrity is maintained, which is a core feature of PAdES.

Legal compliance

Adheres to international regulations and standards for electronic signatures, making it legally recognized in many jurisdictions. Addo Sign complies with European eIDAS regulations and other international e-signature laws, making the signatures legally recognized and enforceable in multiple jurisdictions.


Embedded signatures

Stores the signature and all necessary validation data (e.g., certificates, revocation lists) within the PDF, ensuring that the document is self-contained. Addo Sign embeds the signature and all necessary validation data within the PDF document itself, ensuring it is self-contained and can be validated without external dependencies.