October 2026

As a Remote Online Notary, trust is at the center of everything you do. Clients trust you with their identity. They trust you to handle their documents professionally. They trust you to protect sensitive information throughout the notarization process.   That trust is valuable—and protecting it should be part of your everyday business practices. This October, RONA’s theme is Protect. Prepare. Perform. We’re focusing on practical ways notaries can protect their businesses, prepare for potential risks, and continue performing at a professional level.   Why Security Should Be Part of Your Everyday Routine Cybersecurity isn’t only a concern for large corporations. Small businesses and independent notaries handle valuable personal and financial information too. A compromised email account, weak password, unsecured device, or careless file-sharing practice can create unnecessary risks. The goal isn’t to become a cybersecurity expert. It’s to develop simple habits that make your business more secure. One-Liner Insight: Protecting your business starts with the small things you do consistently.   Strengthen Your Passwords Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Consider using a reputable password manager and creating strong, unique passwords for your: Business email RON platform Banking and payment accounts Website Cloud storage Business management tools Whenever available, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). That extra layer can make a significant difference if a password is ever compromised.   Keep Your Devices Updated Those software update notifications may be annoying, but they often include important security fixes. Make it a habit to regularly update: Your computer Smartphone Browser Operating system RON-related applications Your technology is part of your business infrastructure. Treat it that way.   Be Careful With Emails and Links Phishing attempts can look surprisingly legitimate. Before clicking a link or opening an attachment, ask yourself: Was I expecting this? Check the sender’s address carefully and be cautious of messages creating urgency or requesting sensitive information. When something feels unusual, verify it through a trusted method before taking action.   Protect Client Information  RONs may encounter sensitive information during the course of their work. Think carefully about where and how you’re storing or sharing documents. Avoid: Sending sensitive documents through unsecured methods Leaving documents accessible on shared devices Using public computers for business Keeping unnecessary copies of client information Follow applicable laws, regulations, platform requirements, and your own document-retention policies.   Secure Your Workspace Working remotely doesn’t mean security should become an afterthought. If you’re conducting RON appointments from home or another location, consider: Who can see your screen Who can hear confidential conversations Whether your Wi-Fi network is secure Whether your computer automatically locks Where physical documents are stored A professional workspace supports both privacy and professionalism.   Know Your RON Platform Your technology provider is an important part of your workflow. Make sure you understand: Security features Authentication procedures Recording requirements Document storage practices Available account-security settings Don’t wait until there’s a problem to learn how your platform works.   Have a Backup Plan What happens if your internet goes down five minutes before a signing? What if your computer suddenly stops working? Preparation doesn’t mean expecting something to go wrong. It means knowing what you’ll do if it does. Have a plan for: Internet interruptions Equipment problems Platform issues Power outages Communication with clients when something unexpected happens One-Liner Reminder: Confidence comes from knowing what to do when Plan A doesn’t go according to plan.   Protecting Your Business Protects Your Reputation Security isn’t only about preventing a cyberattack. It’s also about demonstrating professionalism. When clients see that you take their information seriously, communicate clearly, and follow secure procedures, you’re building something incredibly valuable:   Trust. And trust is one of the strongest foundations a notary business can have.   October Action Challenge Choose three security habits to review this month. For example: Update your passwords Turn on MFA Update your devices Review your RON platform settings Create a backup plan You don’t have to change everything in one day. Start with one improvement and build from there.   Final Thoughts Your commission is important. Your business is important. And the trust your clients place in you is important. Protecting all three requires intentional habits and preparation.   This October, don’t just think about security—practice it. Protect your business. Prepare for the unexpected. Perform with confidence. That’s professional excellence in action.   Stay connected with RONA for education, resources, and conversations that help you become a more confident and prepared notary.