Remote Online Notarization – How Your Identity is Protected

Remote Online Notary Identity by Diem Notary, Lancaster, PA

Technology has transformed nearly every aspect of daily life – from online banking to telehealth appointments. Now, even notarization can be done virtually. This process, known as Remote Online Notarization (RON), allows you to meet with a commissioned notary through a secure online platform instead of in person.

If you’re new to RON, one of the first questions you might have is: How can my identity be protected online? After all, notarization is built on trust, and verifying the signer’s identity is the cornerstone of preventing fraud.

The good news? RON platforms are designed with multiple layers of security that go above and beyond traditional in-person notarization.  Here’s how it works.

What is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization is a legally recognized way to notarize documents using audio-visual technology. Instead of traveling to meet a notary in person (Mobile Notary Services), you connect through a secure state-approved platform. I use Blue Notary.

During the session, the notary and signer can see and hear one another, just like a video call. The signer presents identification, answers security questions, and electronically signs the document. The notary then affixes a digital seal, completing the notarization.

Pennsylvania has authorized RON. For details, see the Pennsylvania Department of State-Notaries.

Why Identity Verification Matters

In any notarization – in person or online – the notary’s first responsibility is to confirm that:

✅  The person signing is who they say they are.
✅  The signer is acting willingly, without coercion.
✅  The signer understands the document(s) they are signing.

Without proper identity verification, documents could be forged, fraud could occur, and legal disputes may follow. That’s why RON platforms use multiple security layers to ensure accuracy.

Security Layers That Protect Your Identity in RON

1. Multi-Factor Authentication

Before the notarization even begins, you must confirm your identity. This often includes:

  • Uploading a government-issued photo ID for review and
  • Entering personal information that is checked against public databases.

2. Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)

Many RON platforms use a tool called Knowledge-Based Authentication. You’ll be asked a series of timed questions pulled from your personal history – like which addresses you’ve lived at or what car loan was associated with your name. 

These questions come from public records and help ensure that only you can pass.

3. ID Credential Analysis

After you upload your government-issued photo ID, the system performs credential analysis to check holograms, expiration dates and barcodes. If the system detects tampering, the notarization cannot proceed.

4. Audio-Visual Recording

The RON session is recorded in full, capturing the signer presenting ID, answering questions, and signing the document(s).

This recording is stored securely and can be accessed if the notarization is ever challenged. It’s an additional layer of accountability not always present in traditional in-person notarization.

5. Tamper-Evident Technology

Once the notary affixes their digital seal, the platform locks the document. If anyone attempts to alter it after notarization, the system flags it. This ensures authenticity.

6. Secure Storage and Audit Trail

Every RON transaction includes a digital audit trail that records:

  • Date and time of notarization
  • Names of participants
  • Type of ID used
  • Steps taken to verify


This information is securely stored for years, creating transparency and accountability.

Why Clients Can Feel Confident Using RON

Some people feel uneasy about moving such an important step online, but in many ways, RON adds more protection than traditional notarization.

In an in-person signing, a notary relies on a single ID and their judgment. With RON, multiple safeguards – including credential analysis, knowledge-based questions, and recorded sessions – work together to protect you.

For clients, this means:

✅ Convenience – no travel required.
✅ Accessibility – notarization available even if you’re out of state or homebound.
✅Security – advanced identity verification tools that protect against fraud.

Common Uses for RON

Remote Online Notarization is being used more and more for:

For global use, see the U.S. Department of State – Apostilles & Authentications

Final Thoughts

The notary’s role has always been to protect the public from fraud. Remote Online Notarization carries that responsibility into the digital age – with even greater safeguards.

By combining multi-level authentication, knowledge-based questions, ID checks, tamper-proof technology and secure recordings, RON ensures your identity is fully protected every step of the way.

If you’re considering Remote Online Notarization, rest assured the process is not only convenient, but also secure. With today’s technology, your identity – and your documents – are protected like never before.

For official state rules, visit the Pennsylvania Department of State – Notaries.

📞  Call/Text: 717-269-7545
 🗓️ Schedule here: https://diemnotary.com/book-an-appointment/
 💻 Contact Form: https://diemnotary.com/contact-us/
📧  Email: wendy@diemnotary.com

Let Diem Notary & Paralegal Services, LLC make your day easier!

SHARE

More Posts

Remote Online Notary

You need a document notarized – but your schedule, location, or circumstances make it impossible to meet in person. What can you do? That’s where Remote