Electronic signature: your questions

What you need to know about online electronic signatures, their legal effects and security.

What is an electronic signature?

An electronic signature lets a person sign a digital document without printing it. Depending on the selected flow, SignCloud records consent, verifies an OTP channel and stores technical integrity and traceability data. Legal effect depends on the signature level actually implemented and on the context.

Is an electronic signature legally valid?

The European eIDAS regulation recognizes electronic signatures, with different effects depending on their level and the available evidence. SignCloud records the PDF fingerprint, consent, the OTP channel used and technical events. The generated record supports verification but does not by itself guarantee the outcome of legal proceedings.

How do I sign a document online with SignCloud?

Upload your PDF (or draft a contract with AI), place the signature zones, then send the link to the signer by email. They open the link, confirm the controlled channel with the received code, sign with a finger or mouse, and receive the signed document.

Is the electronic signature secure?

Connections use HTTPS/TLS. The signing flow records the OTP channel actually used, the IP address, server events and a SHA-256 fingerprint that can reveal a change to the PDF. Hosting location and guarantees depend on the infrastructure actually configured.

Can I sign a PDF for free?

Yes, SignCloud offers a free plan that lets you get documents signed every month, with no credit card. You can upgrade at any time, with no commitment, as your needs grow.

What is the difference between simple, advanced and qualified signatures?

The eIDAS regulation distinguishes simple, advanced and qualified signatures, each with different requirements. SignCloud records consent, the verification channel used and document integrity. The level and evidential value depend on the flow actually enabled and the relevant legal context.

Can several people sign the same document?

Yes. You can add several signers who each sign in turn, in the order you define. Each signer receives their own secure link, and the final document gathers all signatures before being sealed and returned to all parties.

Can I embed signing on my website or tools?

Yes. SignCloud provides a public link and an embed snippet (iframe or button) to place on your site (WordPress, PrestaShop, any CMS) to have a document or form signed. An API and webhooks also let you create and track signatures from your own tools (CRM, billing…).

How is my data protected?

SignCloud implements private storage, access controls, retention settings, and access, rectification and erasure workflows. Applicable hosting locations and processors are listed in the current privacy policy; production compliance must be assessed against the actual configuration and contracts.

How does SMS verification work?

When signing, a one-time code is sent by SMS to the signer's mobile. They must enter it to validate their signature. This proves the signer held the associated phone and strengthens the evidential value of the signature.

Can a contract be drafted automatically?

Yes. SignCloud includes an AI assistant that drafts complete, structured contracts and administrative letters from your description. The draft is editable, then turned into a ready-to-sign PDF. We recommend having any contract reviewed by a legal professional.

How much does SignCloud cost?

SignCloud offers a free plan to get started, a Pro plan billed monthly with no commitment for teams, and a Business plan on quote for high volumes and integrations. Detailed pricing is shown on the home page.

Ready to get your documents signed?

Create your free account and send your first document in two minutes.

Start for free