Makes me wonder about the notary who was supposed to identify the signers before notarizing. In the first case, at least, perhaps the notary had some doubts, which could be why they took a picture of at least one of the signers. But why just take a pic, then proceed with the transaction? Perhaps it was just a hunch? I'd like to think I'd be contacting title, or asking for some additional form of ID, if I had doubts. [In my notary career, I've found two fake IDs. In both cases, the signing was over on the spot - without incident, BTW, since they were fully aware their ID wasn't valid.]
In the second case, it's a good thing your friend listened to her gut, as the notary apparently either made a flat out mistake or was complicit somehow. Regardless, it's a great reminder to us all to perhaps take a little more time to carefully examine IDs. I'm sure none of us would want to be the notary in a situation like either of the ones you described!
Thanks for sharing the story!
BTW, in your second example, I'm confused about one thing. You said the guy wanted the funds to be "wired to him", but how does that happen without them being deposited into a bank account, which your friend insisted on? I'm missing something there...
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