What action should a notary take upon receiving a request for a document they suspect is fraudulent?

When a notary receives a request for a document that raises suspicions of fraud, the appropriate course of action is to decline the request and potentially inform the authorities. This is crucial to uphold the integrity of the notarial act and to prevent the furtherance of fraudulent activities. By refusing to complete the notarization, the notary protects both themselves and the public from the consequences of endorsing a fraudulent document.

In situations where a notary is doubtful about the authenticity of a request, taking proactive steps to report suspicious activity can be essential in maintaining the credibility of the notarization process and ensuring that justice is served. This action aligns with the notary's duty to prevent fraud, as it helps to safeguard against any legal ramifications that could arise from unwittingly facilitating a fraudulent transaction.

Focusing on the other choices, accepting the request at face value would undermine the notary's responsibility to perform due diligence. Seeking verification from a third party may not be sufficient nor appropriate in every case of suspected fraud, as it can lead to complications without addressing the immediate concern. Requiring additional identification from the requester could be a reasonable action, but it does not directly address the problem of suspected fraud, nor does it fulfill the notary's obligation to reject