LOS ANGELES, Feb. 16, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- ChoicePoint's announcement of the theft of identification data on up to 100,000 American consumers raises the specter of wholesale consumer identity theft across the country and constitutes an immediate national security risk.
With this data, thieves are one step closer to creating driver's licenses and ID cards that are undetectable from the real thing, because they will contain real authenticated identity data. These ID cards can then be used to commit other financial and non-financial crimes.
The National Notary Association, the nation's professional Notary organization urges businesses, consumers and the 4.3 million Notaries nationwide to apply extreme diligence as they verify personal information for the foreseeable future.
Furthermore, the NNA reasserts its call upon Notaries Public to keep an official journal of their Notarial acts with the document signer's signature and form of ID presented listed clearly. Notaries should write the signer's name, address, and the type and serial number of the ID presented, creating a critical chain of evidence for law enforcement if the signer is indeed an imposter.
Twenty-five states require Notaries Public to keep such a journal for some or all Notarial acts, while other states merely recommend the practice.
In light of the ChoicePoint theft, the National Notary Association strongly urges every Notary Public to keep an official journal of every Notarial act and thus provide law enforcement with additional evidence if a crime is committed.
Notaries Public, who are trained at examining documents and verifying identity, can assist consumers and businesses in authenticating the identity of customers and others with whom they do business. Notarization is an effective weapon against identification theft because it verifies identity with picture I.D. and biometric authentication; proves willingness and awareness on the part of the signer; authenticates signatures; and the journal creates an auditable evidence trail for prosecution.
"Notaries Public must be an important part of the comprehensive screening system called for by the 9/11 Commission," stated Timothy S. Reiniger, Executive Director for the NNA. "Notaries are uniquely suited to protect consumers and businesses from fraud through their roles as professional identity screeners and impartial witnesses."
About The National Notary Association
The National Notary Association (NNA), America's professional Notary organization, develops and promotes notarial standards and best practices for the nation's Notaries. The organization is committed to furthering the practice, professionalism and ethical standards of the Notary profession. For more information about the National Notary Association call 800-US NOTARY (800-876-6827) or visit www.NationalNotary.org.