Issue/Question
Can the password for a self-signed digital certificate be reset or recovered if it has been forgotten?
Environment
- Adobe Reader
- Adobe Acrobat
- Self-Signed Digital Certificates
Resolution
The password for a self-signed digital certificate cannot be reset or recovered, because it is managed only by the person who created it.
For more advanced signing capabilities, clients may purchase a digital certificate from a public Certificate Authority (CA). Certificate Authorities have the capability to revoke compromised or unusable digital certificates and reissue new, valid certificates for the customer. Additionally, certificates issued by recognized Certificate Authorities will be "trusted" by applications and can be cryptographically verified.
Note: The WKU ITS Unit does not provide support or provide recommendations for third-party companies.