What should a notary do to safeguard their journal?

The chosen response emphasizes the importance of security and confidentiality in the notary process. Keeping the journal in a locked drawer ensures that only authorized individuals have access to the sensitive information contained within it. This is essential as the journal contains records of official acts such as oaths, affirmations, and signatures, which must be protected to prevent unauthorized access or identity theft.

In contrast, sharing the journal with close family members could lead to breaches of confidentiality, as they may not be subject to the same regulations that govern notary practices. Maintaining the journal as a public document undermines the need for privacy and security, as it could be accessed by anyone, potentially exposing sensitive personal information. Digitalizing the journal may offer convenience, but it also introduces risks related to data security and privacy if proper safeguards are not put in place. Therefore, securely storing the journal in a locked drawer is the most appropriate and responsible action to take in its safeguarding.