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Our statistics show that approximately one in five ESS Reports results in a discrepancy or a red flag that calls the applicant’s credibility into question. From minor embellishments to blatant inventions, one of the most common areas of misrepresentation is the educational credential. The National Student Clearinghouse estimates that less than 30% of employers verify degrees because it is too cumbersome. If this is true, it’s no wonder the dishonest job seeker feels comfortable submitting false educational claims. If he/she is caught, chances are the next employer won’t bother to check. Another indication that educational claims are frequently falsified is a disturbing statistic put out by a governmental study several years ago. The study reported that 60% of college registrars regularly experience attempts by students and former students to document false credentials. Unfortunately, it’s not safe to simply rely on copies of a transcript or a degree that comes from the applicant. Deceptive applicants with skills in computer and printer technology will sometimes create realistic credentials that can fool most anyone at first glance. Some are easily identified others take some effort to find. For example, ESS received a copy of an applicant’s claimed degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Everything on the diploma looked fine. Upon closer examination, we found that in one area of the university’s name was miss-spelled as Steven F. Austin State University. The forgery was good, but not quite good enough. In many cases a copy can only be identified as fraudulent after inspection by the college itself. If you are hiring for positions that require any level of education, we strongly recommend that you have it verified. We find that even claims of a high school diploma or equivalency are often false. The level of education may not be a key requirement for a position, but learning that someone was dishonest on the application may indicate a propensity for such behavior in the work place. |