Remote Online Notarization vs Traditional Notarization

Modern technological tools for notarization have confused many people, including notaries. Various types of notarizations are available, including remote online notarization (RON), in-person electronic notarization (IPEN), and remote ink-signed notarizations (RIN). Each of these is different from traditional pen-and-paper notarizations.

What is the difference between IPEN and RON?

IPEN, or in-person electronic notarization, is precisely what it says. It is an in-person notarization act, so the notary and signer should be present at the same time in the exact same physical location during the notarization process. The identifying procedure is performed traditionally. However, notaries use an electronic seal and signature to notarize the document, which is presented in a digital format.

For the IPEN procedure, notaries must attach or logically connect their electronic signature and all other necessary information to the electronic record to build a proof of any change after notarization is performed.

RON, or remote online notarization, allows notaries to perform notarization acts over the internet using audio-visual technology. The signer and notary are not obligated to be at the same physical location. The process of signer identification requires the same documents as the in-person notarization act, but depending on legislation  and the service being used, the process can include a system that establishes the identity of the signer before interaction with the notary.

For the RON process, the signer should appear before the notary at the time of the notarization process via communication technology.

The notary must identify a signer throug

• At least 2 distinct processes or services to verify the identity of the remotely located signer.
• The oath or affirmation of a credible witness who is either physically present before the notary using communication technology.
• The notary’s knowledge.

NOTE!

Notaries must create and retain the record of the notarization process and confirm the signature or statement of the signer was made on the notarized document!

Notaries must create and retain the record of the notarization process and confirm the signature or statement of the signer was made on the notarized document!

Notaries must perform notarization acts and signer identification strictly following the declared procedure. Otherwise, the notary public can be subject to disciplinary notary actions.

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