Problems with the Differentiation of Rubber Stamp Ink Signature Impressions and Written Signatures

In most cases, the forensic document examiner has little difficulty in recognising a signature impression created by use of an inked rubber (or plastic) embossed stamping device and distinguishing it from a signature written with a liquid ink pen. When such signatures appear on paper bearing a fine complex printed background (such as security printing) the distinguishing features can be less clear cut and in some cases ambiguous. This paper lists the features which may serve to distinguish "rubber" stamp signature impressions from written signatures and discusses how complications such as a printed background can affect the distinguishing features.