In remote online notarization, what is the notary's responsibility concerning the individual's identity?

In remote online notarization, a key responsibility of the notary is to verify the individual's identity using reliable means. This ensures that the person appearing before the notary is indeed who they claim to be. Various methods can be employed for this verification, including the use of government-issued identification, knowledge-based authentication questions, or biometric verification, depending on the regulations set forth in the jurisdiction where the notarization is taking place.

Verifying identity is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with fraud and identity theft, as it helps maintain the integrity of legal documents and transactions. By requiring reliable means for identity verification, notaries can confidently proceed with the notarization process, ensuring that all parties involved are protected and that the notarial act is valid and enforceable. This careful approach reinforces trust in the notarial process, especially in remote transactions where the physical presence of the individual is not possible.