Bogus Degrees Trick Employers
One of the discrepancies most often detected by a background check company is that of overstated educational credentials.
A candidate may apply for a position that requires a certain educational level, such as an undergraduate or higher degree from a college or university. The employer usually assumes that the information is correct, or asks for a copy of a diploma or transcripts. But even these credentials can’t be taken at face value without further investigation.
According to one expert, there are over 400 “diploma mills” and 300 web sites where phony degrees can be awarded and fake diplomas purchased for anyone with the cash to buy them.
Fake transcripts can be provided and some of the “colleges” have staff to answer phone inquiries regarding graduation verification from prospective employers and their representatives.
Depending on the institution, degrees can be awarded for “life experiences”, for writing a short essay, or for some institutions, payment alone is enough.
According to the Society for Human Resource Management, only 40% of companies verify degrees, and the diploma mills provide part of that verification percentage.
The key then is to determine if the degree granting institution is accredited by a bona fide accrediting agency. (There are phony accrediting agencies as well.) Be certain that your background check company is aware of the proliferation of diploma mills and that unfamiliar schools are checked for legitimacy.
Some may recall the incident in which a major university football coach was forced to resign from his dream job because of discrepancies regarding his educational achievements found on his curriculum vitae.
A high-ranking director of the Department of Homeland Security was released because of three claimed degrees from a diploma mill.
In today’s economy, it pays to know whom you are hiring. Don’t offer to pay a prospective employee for education they don’t have.
Contact a qualified background check company today at 1-770-426-0547 or click here to email.
