What should a notary public do if they suspect fraud during a notarization?

When a notary public suspects fraud during the notarization process, the appropriate action is to refuse to notarize the document. This choice is grounded in the fundamental responsibility of notaries to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure the integrity of the notarial acts. If a notary has reason to believe that the signer is not who they claim to be or that the document itself is fraudulent or being used in a fraudulent manner, proceeding with the notarization would compromise both the notary's duties and the public trust in the notarial system.

By refusing to notarize, the notary protects themselves, their commission, and the public from potential fraudulent consequences. This decision aligns with the ethical and legal obligations set forth in notary laws, which emphasize the importance of verifying identity and ensuring the legality of the documents being notarized. Taking this stance is crucial in maintaining professionalism and the legitimacy of the notarization process.