Notaries Targeted in Sophisticated Credential Scams
In an age where digital communication dominates, notaries are facing a new wave of cyber threats—phishing scams designed to steal their professional credentials and personal data. One notary’s recent experience serves as a cautionary tale for the entire community.
A Seemingly Routine Request Turns Risky
“Martha,” a veteran notary, received an email requesting her services for a seller signing. The sender claimed to be a nurse working shifts in Phoenix and said that Old Republic Title Company would follow up with details. Soon after, Martha got an email from someone claiming to be Kevin Pogoda, Vice President of Operations at Old Republic.
The email looked legitimate and asked for Martha’s credentials: her bond, errors and omissions certificate, notary license, driver’s license, and resume. Trusting the request, she complied. But when she tried to follow up, the email bounced and the phone number was disconnected. A deeper investigation revealed that the real Kevin Pogoda had no connection to the request—and the entire setup was a scam.
Spotting the Red Flags
Martha’s story highlights several warning signs that notaries should watch for:
Unsolicited job offers from unknown individuals or companies.
Requests for sensitive documents via email, especially those not typically required for a signing.
Suspicious email addresses that mimic real companies but don’t match official domains.
Lack of verifiable contact info or refusal to communicate through secure channels.
Urgency or pressure tactics to rush the process.
How Notaries Can Stay Safe
To avoid falling victim to similar scams, notaries should take proactive steps:
Verify all requests by contacting companies directly through official websites.
Limit document sharing and avoid sending sensitive files over unsecured email.
Use watermarks like “Copy Only” or “For Verification Purposes Only” on any shared documents.
Monitor your credentials and check your credit reports regularly.
Report suspicious activity to your state’s notary commission and the FTC via .
If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve shared information with a scammer:
Change your passwords immediately.
Notify your bank and credit card providers.
File a police report.
Alert your notary regulating agency and report the incident to the FTC.
The Bigger Risk
Scammers can use stolen notary credentials to forge seals, notarize fraudulent documents, or sell your information on the dark web. Martha’s experience is a stark reminder that vigilance isn’t optional—it’s essential.