As one of the fastest enactments of public policy in U.S. history, Remote Online Notarization (RON) has proven that technology can serve people more efficiently than traditional paper signings. Whether you are purchasing a home, renewing a passport, or opening a 529 plan, RON allows you to connect with a notary anywhere the internet is available.
Despite its viral growth, skeptics often worry that digital isn’t “best practice.” To clear the air, here are five common myths about RON debunked with the facts.
Myth #1: RON cannot spot fake IDs.
The Fact: While a physical inspection isn’t possible, RON platforms use advanced identity verification tools that actually outperform the naked eye. Through credential analysis and Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA), signers must answer specific questions about their past that go far beyond a mother’s maiden name. This adds a layer of database-backed security that traditional notarization lacks. Plus, it protects notaries from being pressured to “look the other way” in unsafe or unfamiliar physical locations.
Myth #2: It is easy to commit fraud with RON.
The Fact: In a single real estate transaction, there are over seven vulnerable targets. RON platforms catch fraud before it starts by requiring every session to be recorded. This audio-visual record serves as permanent quality assurance, protecting both the signer and the notary from future allegations.
Myth #3: RON cannot detect intimidation or coercion.
The Fact: Coercion is difficult to catch in any setting, but RON offers a unique advantage: the recorded session. In a traditional signing, a notary must notice subtle cues in real-time with no “rewind” button. With RON, the entire process is captured, allowing for a review of body language and red flags that might suggest someone is signing against their will.
Myth #4: RON impedes law enforcement efforts.
The Fact: It’s actually the opposite. When paper documents are notarized, there are no digital duplicates, and a notary can usually only provide their journal notes to authorities. With RON, every document is digitally sealed and tamper-evident. If the validity of a signature is questioned, law enforcement can review the actual video recording and the unalterable digital audit trail.
Myth #5: RON is available to all notaries.
The Fact: This is a major point of consumer education. Not every notary is authorized or equipped to perform a RON. Valid remote notarization must occur through specific, secure platforms that abide by strict recordkeeping standards. Using a generic video chat without these tools jeopardizes the integrity of your document.
A Better Way to Close with jbensonNotary
Since 2008, jbensonNotary has been the trusted partner for title agencies, mortgage lenders, and New York consumers who prioritize security and convenience. We know that as the notarial act goes digital, you need a partner who understands the technology as well as the law.
At jbensonNotary, we provide a bulletproof closing experience. We “touch” every single file 8 or 9 times to ensure the process moves forward without a single delay, security gap, or clerical error. With over 250,000 successful signings across all 51 jurisdictions and an elite 96% closing ratio, we combine the speed of RON with the precision of seasoned professionals.
Ready to experience the future of secure signing? Visit www.jbensonNotary.com to secure your closing today!
Category: Remote Online Notarization
Tags: #RONFacts #NotarySecurity #jbensonNotary #NYNotary #FraudPrevention #DigitalClosing #RemoteNotary #RealEstateTech2026