pdfdigital-signaturepades

Can one remove or revoke digital signature on PDF document?


I have a theoretical question about PAdES. I want to know if it is possible to revoke a signature in PDF or remove it?


Solution

  • I don't know what exactly you technically mean by revoking a signature.

    But it clearly is possible to remove a signature: An integrated PDF signature usually consists of a signature form field with a value that contains a CMS signature container.

    You have the choice of either removing only that value or the whole field with the value.

    The former option leaves an empty signature field, which can easily be used for a new signature with a visualization at the same location as your original signature (if it has any to start with).

    The latter option removes your signature completely.

    Two caveats, though:

    For some more technical backgrounds on integrated PDF signatures cf. this answer and documents referenced from there.