In an age where identity theft and document fraud are rising, the role of notaries has never been more important. Notaries act as impartial witnesses to the signing of important documents, helping to prevent fraud and ensure the authenticity of your paperwork. But how exactly do they help protect you?

Let’s break it down.

1. Verifying Identity with Proper Documentation

One of the core duties of a notary is to confirm that the person signing the document is who they say they are. This step involves checking valid forms of identification—usually government-issued IDs like passports or driver’s licenses.

Why it matters:

  • Prevents impersonation
  • Deters forged signatures
  • Adds legal credibility to documents

2. Ensuring the Signer Is Willing and Aware

Fraud doesn’t always involve fake signatures—sometimes it involves coercion or confusion. Notaries are trained to spot signs of pressure or mental incapacity.

During the notarization process, they check for:

  • Willing participation (no coercion)
  • Mental clarity (understanding what’s being signed)
  • Physical ability to sign

If anything feels off, the notary can refuse the service.

3. Keeping Detailed Records in a Notary Journal

Many notaries are required—or choose—to keep a log of each notarization they perform. This journal includes the type of document, date, signer info, and even fingerprints in some states.

Why this helps:

  • Creates a legal paper trail
  • Useful in court or legal disputes
  • Deters fraud since actions are recorded

4. Adding a Notarial Seal or Certificate

When a document is notarized, a special stamp or certificate is attached to show it was verified. This seal is recognized by courts, banks, and legal professionals as a sign of authenticity.

Bonus: Many fraudsters won’t even attempt to forge a document with a valid notarial stamp—it raises too many red flags.

5. Remote Online Notarization and Security

With the rise of Remote Online Notarization (RON), security protocols have become even more advanced. Online platforms use:

  • Multi-step identity verification
  • Credential analysis
  • Secure video recordings of the session

This ensures that even digital notarizations are protected against fraud.

Conclusion: Trust the Process—Trust the Notary

Whether you’re signing a will, real estate documents, or a power of attorney, a notary is there to make sure it’s done right. Their role may seem simple, but it provides a powerful layer of protection for you and your documents.

Need a trustworthy notary?
Book a session today to get your documents notarized safely and securely—online or in person.