PDF Digital Signatures TWG
The PDF Digital Signature TWG was created to meet the needs of software companies who are creating PDF signing software or signature validation software.
The existing ISO standards for PDF (ISO 32000-2) and PDF/A (ISO 19005-1,-2, -3, -4) specify the integration of a digital signature in the PDF object structure and focus more or less purely on the PDF point of view.
The implications of various signature types were originally specified via RFCs and PKCS standards. In the meantime the most comprehensive specification is the ETSI standard PAdES (ETSI EN 319 142-1, ETSI EN 319 142-2 and ETSI EN 319 142-3) which itself is derived from the underlying CAdES standard. The PDF Association is a member of ETSI.
As PDF is the dominant digital document format, various features possible within PDF signing like timestamping, serial signatures and certification signatures together with the complex handling of validating a multiple-signed PDF document generates a demand for clarification and interpretation of the actual specifications. This is an essential part of the work to be done within the Digital Signature TWG.
Beyond PDF’s own definitions for implementing digital signatures this TWG also addresses the requirements related to including C2PA data in PDF files.
Yet another goal is to collect requirements and discuss new feature requests for future enhancements of the specifications and ISO standards.
Join us!
Members of the PDF Association are entitled to participate in online and in-person PDF DS TWG meetings, subscribe to the PDF DS TWG listserv, access ISO draft documents and other benefits as well. Review the options for membership, or just get in touch to learn more!