Is Remote Online Notarization (RON) secure?

Yes, Remote Online Notarization (RON) offers enhanced security measures that surpass those of traditional notarization methods, making it a highly secure option for notarizing documents. This advanced level of security is achieved through the integration of several key technologies and practices:

1. Tamper-Evident Technology: RON employs sophisticated digital tools that ensure any modifications made to a document after it has been signed and notarized are easily detectable.

2. Audio-Visual Recording: One of the cornerstone features of RON is the requirement for a live, secure video link between the notary and the signer. This audio-visual recording is made for each notarization session, providing a transparent and detailed record of the entire process. This not only includes the verification of the signer's identity but also their willing participation and understanding of the document they are signing. The recording serves as an indisputable record that can be referenced for verification purposes or in the event of any legal challenges.

3. Digital Journal: Alongside the audio-visual recording, RON sessions are documented in a digital journal maintained by the notary. This journal logs key information about the notarization process, including the date and time of the notarization, the type of document notarized, and the identity verification method used. This comprehensive record-keeping adds an additional layer of security and accountability, further enhancing the reliability of the notarization.

4. Secure Identity Verification: RON platforms utilize rigorous identity verification methods to ensure the signer is who they claim to be. This often includes knowledge-based authentication (KBA), where the signer must answer personal questions derived from public and financial records, and credential analysis, where the signer's identification document (such as a driver's license or passport) is scanned and verified for authenticity. These measures significantly reduce the risk of identity fraud.

5. Encryption and Data Protection: The technology underlying RON includes robust encryption protocols to protect the confidentiality and security of the notarization session and the documents being notarized. This ensures that sensitive information is securely transmitted and stored, safeguarding against unauthorized access or data breaches.

In summary, RON is designed with security at its core, employing multiple layers of technology and best practices to protect the integrity of the notarization process and the documents involved. These measures not only make RON more secure than traditional notarization but also provide peace of mind to all parties involved in the notarization process.