In electronic notarization, what role does the notary public assume?

In electronic notarization, the notary public assumes the role of an electronic notary public. This designation indicates that the notary is authorized to perform notarial acts using electronic means rather than traditional, paper-based methods. Electronic notaries utilize specific technology to authenticate and execute documents digitally, ensuring the same legal validity as paper notarizations.

This role requires the notary to be well-versed in the electronic tools and processes, such as electronic signatures, digital seals, and secure remote communication methods, which are essential for maintaining the integrity and security of the notarization process in a digital environment.

In contrast, while a standard notary public may perform traditional notarizations, they do not possess the specialized training or authorization to conduct electronic notarizations without further credentials. Similarly, a temporary notary public is not a recognized category under Illinois law, and a virtual notary assistant typically refers to someone who assists in the notarization process rather than performing the notarial acts themselves.