Authentication Guide

Learn how to get the best results from SigCert

Preparing Your Image

Use High Quality Images

Higher resolution images produce better results. Aim for at least 300 DPI if scanning, or use a high-quality camera photo.

Crop Tightly

Crop your image to focus on the signature itself. Remove excess background to help our AI isolate the signature more effectively.

Ensure Good Lighting

Avoid shadows, glare, and reflections. Natural, even lighting works best. If scanning, ensure the document lies flat.

Minimize Background Noise

Signatures on plain backgrounds analyze better than those on textured paper or with visible lines/text behind them.

Understanding Your Results

70-100%: More Human-Like

The signature shows natural variation in stroke patterns, pressure, and flow that are characteristic of human handwriting. This is a positive indicator of authenticity.

45-69%: Unclear / Mixed

The signature shows some human-like characteristics but also some patterns that could indicate machine production. Further analysis may be needed.

0-44%: More Machine-Like

The signature shows unusually uniform patterns, consistent pressure, and smooth curves that suggest machine production rather than human handwriting.

Best Practices

Flatbed scanners generally produce better results than camera photos, as they provide consistent lighting and focus.
Avoid image compression when possible. Use PNG or high-quality JPEG formats.
For faint signatures, increase contrast before uploading, but avoid over-processing that creates artifacts.
Multiple angles can help if the signature is unclear. Try analyzing the same signature from different photos if available.

Limitations

Important: SigCert provides heuristic estimates based on pattern analysis. Our results should not be used as definitive legal proof of authenticity. For legal purposes, consult certified forensic document examiners.

• Very old or faded signatures may produce less accurate results
• Signatures on textured or patterned backgrounds may be harder to analyze
• Signatures that have been photocopied multiple times may show reduced accuracy
• Our celebrity database is extensive but not exhaustive - some signers may not be in our database

Quick Tips

✓ Do

• Use high-resolution images
• Ensure even lighting
• Crop to the signature
• Use flatbed scanners when possible

✗ Don't

• Upload blurry or out-of-focus images
• Include excessive background
• Over-process or filter images
• Use heavily compressed files

Ready to Analyze?

Follow these guidelines for the best results.

Start Analysis