In today's job market, the submission of fake degrees is a serious concern for employers. To ensure the candidates you hire have genuine qualifications, it's crucial to implement thorough verification processes. Here’s how you can check if a degree is authentic:
1. Contact the Issuing Institution
Reach out directly to the educational institution that issued the degree. Most institutions have verification services or dedicated departments that can confirm the authenticity of a degree certificate. Ensure you have the candidate’s full name, degree details, and any reference numbers provided.
2. Use Verification Services
There are various third-party verification services available that can help validate academic credentials. These services often have access to databases and networks that provide reliable verification. Some popular services include National Student Clearinghouse and Heriot-Watt University’s verification services.
3. Check for Security Features
Examine the degree certificate for common security features such as holograms, watermarks, and official seals. Counterfeit degrees may lack these features or have poorly reproduced ones. Compare the certificate with a known genuine example if possible.
4. Verify the Institution’s Accreditation
Confirm that the educational institution is accredited by a recognized accreditation body. You can check this through the institution's website or by contacting the accrediting agency directly. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets specific standards of education.
5. Look for Red Flags
Be cautious of degrees from institutions that have no online presence, lack an official website, or have poor reviews. Additionally, degrees with inconsistent formatting, misspelled words, or unusual signatures may also indicate fraud.
6. Use Online Verification Tools
Many educational institutions and third-party services offer online verification tools. Candidates may provide a unique verification link or code that you can use to confirm the degree’s authenticity.
Conclusion
Verifying the authenticity of a degree is a critical step in the hiring process. By following these methods, you can protect your organization from the risks associated with fraudulent credentials. Implementing a robust verification process will not only ensure you hire qualified candidates but also uphold the integrity of your hiring practices.
0 Comments
Please! Don't enter any spam link in the comment box.