In what format must a notary public maintain their journal if it is in electronic format?

In New Jersey, if a notary public chooses to maintain their journal in an electronic format, it must be in a permanent tamper-evident electronic format. This requirement is crucial because it ensures the integrity and authenticity of the records, protecting them from any unauthorized modifications or tampering. Using a tamper-evident format means that the notary can provide reliable evidence of the transactions that have been recorded, which is important for legal purposes and for maintaining public trust in the notarial process.

A permanent format indicates that the records will not only be kept indefinitely but will also be stored in a way that guarantees they remain unchanged over time. This contrasts with a temporary format, which may not secure the longevity or the integrity of the records. Furthermore, while a secure backup format is important for data preservation, it does not address the essential requirement that the primary journal must be tamper-evident. An accessible online format can improve access to the journal but does not guarantee the tamper-evident nature that is legally required. Therefore, maintaining the journal as a permanent tamper-evident electronic format is vital for compliance with New Jersey notary laws.