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Validation (verification) of electronic signatures can look different depending on the tool. Adobe Acrobat Reader shows the status of signatures directly in the PDF file, but is sometimes sensitive to the configuration and timeliness of trust lists - hence the famous "yellow question mark." WebNotarius (web application) and proCertum SmartSign (desktop application) use the verification mechanisms of the qualified trust services manufacturer and usually present the results in a more "technical" way, with clear certificate and timestamp status.
Below: quick picks, a comparison, the most common pitfalls, and brief instructions.
Criterion | Adobe Acrobat Reader | WebNotarius (web) | proCertum SmartSign (desktop) |
Tool | PDF viewer with PAdES verification | Validator accessible via browser | Signing and verification application (2-in-1) |
Formats | PAdES (PDF) | PAdES/XAdES/CAdES | PAdES, XAdES, CAdES |
Presentation of the result | PDF icons/banners ("green tick, " "yellow sign") | Clear, descriptive technical report | Detailed windows and reports |
Sources of trust | Local settings and lists in the program | Current lists on the service side | Current lists in the application |
Timestamp / LTV | Read and status in PDF (configuration dependent) | Clearly described in the report | Clearly described in the report |
Strengths | Immediately in PDF, universality | Zero installation, clear report | Full control, working with multiple formats |
When to use | Quick preview in PDF | Quick secure verification and export of the result | When you combine signing and validation |
We write more about LTV and the practice of attaching a time stamp:
- How to verify a signature... (guide)
- Verifying a qualified signature - authenticity
Most common causes
Remember, however, that
"Graphics / Stamp" in PDF is just a graphic. Validation is determined by cryptography and chain of trust
In the PDF, you can see a graphic stamp/banner (e.g., a green tick or yellow question mark). This visual layer of the interface of a of a program (e.g., Adobe), which can sometimes be confusing because it depends on local configuration and the validity of the trust lists.
Practical conclusion
A yellow mark is not a judgment. Do a cross-validation in WebNotarius or SmartSign and check the timestamp.
Helpfully, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with:
- Guide: how to verify a signature
- How to verify the authenticity of a qualified signature
No matter what, remember good practices (link)
Does the "yellow question mark" in Adobe mean an invalid signature?
Not always. Often it's a trust/configuration issue. Do cross-validation and check the timestamp. → Yellow sign article
Are WebNotarius and SmartSign "more reliable" than Adobe?
These are different engines and different presentation of results. Dedicated tools (WebNotarius or SmartSign) tend to give a more detailed report, which is sometimes helpful evidentially.
Does the signature alone suffice for LTV (Long-Term Validation)?
No. You need a timestamp and the correct OCSP/CRL from the time of the signature. → Validation Guide
Can I validate offline?
Adobe and SmartSign can read embedded PDF data for verification. Online access is required for full status verification (when data is missing).
Expand on the topic in our materials:
- How to verify the signature...
- Authenticity of a qualified signature
- Yellow question mark in PDF
- Countersignature or second signature?
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us
We will answer your questions, find a date that suits you and an advisor in Gdansk, Gdynia, Krakow, Warsaw or Wroclaw.
You can also write an email from us [email protected].
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