Don't panic! Asterisks appear on a contract if you've chosen to encrypt text on your document.
Using encryption in Dropbox Sign helps keep sensitive information safe from unauthorized access. It ensures that we follow data protection rules and helps prevent data breaches. Plus, it allows you to share the key to unlock the information only with trusted people. Just remember, only those with the special secret key can turn the encrypted text into readable format.
How to avoid asterisks on your contract:
When setting up your contract, you'll see an option to "mask typed text." It's not selected by default, but if selected it will encrypt the entered text and turn it into asterisks.
If you use the placeholder feature in the future and do not want text to be encrypted, just make sure not to select that option!
What is placeholder text?
Placeholder text is temporary text shown in a text field. It gives a hint or example of what information to enter, such as "Client's Address." This helps the signer know what to fill in, but it doesn’t become part of the final signed document. Basically, it serves as a visual guide for where to add specific information.
How can I add permanent, non-encrypted text to my contract?
Using the "Me (Now)" signer role will allow you to pre-populate information into the document. Any text you add in "Me (Now)" will become part of the final signed document. This option is available in the drop-down menu under Signers in the editor.
Learn more about using the "Me (Now)" option here!