What action should a notary take if their electronic signature device becomes ineffective or unsecure?

The correct action for a notary to take when their electronic signature device becomes ineffective or unsecure is to cease performing electronic notarial acts until a new device is acquired. This is crucial because the integrity and security of the notarial process depend on reliable tools. Continuing to perform notarial acts with a compromised device could lead to legal issues or challenges to the validity of the notarial acts.

In a scenario where the electronic signature device is not functioning correctly or poses security risks, it could undermine the trust placed in the notarial process. Notaries are responsible for ensuring that their methods and equipment adhere to state laws and maintain the highest security standards. Failing to pause notarial actions during this period can result in significant consequences, not only for the notary but also for the parties involved in the transactions.

Other options are less appropriate given the risks involved. Continuing electronic notarial acts could jeopardize the integrity of those transactions, while simply notifying the Secretary of State does not address the immediate need to ensure security and compliance. Performing paper notarial acts could be considered but does not resolve the issue if the notary is not equipped for electronic transactions during this period. Thus, temporarily halting electronic notarial acts until a new device is obtained protects all parties