The main objective for fraudsters is to persuade you to bypass the requirement of having the signer physically present or to accept the identification of an impersonator.
To achieve this goal, fraudsters employ various tactics. Here are 5 common strategies that will help you identify them when they arise:
Fraudsters may urge you to rush
Fraudsters may request a favor from you
Fraudsters may use charm to manipulate you
Fraudsters may appeal to your sympathy
Fraudsters may exert pressure by leveraging their authority
Strategy 1: Urging you to rush
If a signer insists, “I'm in a hurry; I only have 5 minutes,” the aim is to distract you and prompt you to take shortcuts during the notarization process, potentially leading to oversight in verifying identification or obtaining necessary signatures.
Strategy 2: Requesting a favor
Unfortunately, this favor may come from someone familiar to you. For instance, a Notary was asked by an employee to notarize her parents' signatures on a property deed without their presence. The employee had forged the signatures and secured a loan against the property without the parents' knowledge.
Strategy 3: Using charm
This tactic involves engaging you in pleasant conversation to lower your guard. The intention is to distract you from scrutinizing a fake ID or questioning an inconsistent story.
Strategy 4: Pleading for sympathy
One instance involved a woman who fabricated a story about her husband's inability to sign due to wrist surgery. The man present was an impostor, but the Notary, swayed by sympathy, failed to thoroughly verify his ID, resulting in a significant loss.
Strategy 5: Pressuring with authority
A grand jury report from New York City highlighted cases where Notaries were deceived by individuals holding respected positions like attorneys or police officers. It can be challenging to refuse when the signer is a first responder, military personnel, or another influential figure.
Protecting Yourself as a Notary
While these tactics may appear straightforward, they are effective. Stay vigilant, follow each step of a proper notarization meticulously, and resist any attempts to rush or omit essential procedures. If someone tries to hurry you or distract you, take your time and ensure every step is completed accurately. Refuse to finalize the notarization until you have double-checked all details.
If someone appears hesitant or overly rushed, suggest they return when they have more time. Emphasize that you cannot offer special treatment, regardless of their identity or circumstances.
By adhering to these practices, you can safeguard yourself and potential victims from significant trouble.
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