Ohio Notary Practice Exam

Which method is NOT a way to verify the identity of the signer?

1. Personal Knowledge

2. Satisfactory evidence

3. Social media verification

4. Documentation review

The correct answer is: Social media verification

Social media verification is not considered a reliable method for verifying the identity of a signer in the context of notary practices. While social media can provide some information, it does not offer the level of security and reliability required for legal documents. Personal knowledge, satisfactory evidence, and documentation review are all recognized methods in notary practice. Personal knowledge refers to the notary being acquainted with the signer and being able to confirm their identity based on prior interactions. Satisfactory evidence involves using credible identification methods, such as official IDs, to establish identity clearly. Documentation review entails carefully examining government-issued identification that includes the signer’s name, photograph, and signature. Each of these methods provides a solid foundation for ensuring that the individual before the notary is indeed who they claim to be, thus maintaining the integrity of the notarization process.