In 2023 alone, identity fraud made up nearly 70% of all recorded UK fraud cases. With schools under seasonal recruitment pressure, how can you stay one step ahead of fraudsters and safeguard your organisation against threats?
Many report that digitally forged documents are growing harder to detect. In our 2022 survey, over 40% of schools expressed concerns about the authenticity of documents provided by new hires.
To combat increasingly sophisticated methods used by fraudsters, it’s essential that those responsible for carrying out ID checks remain informed on the latest tactics used by fraudsters to stay one step ahead.
Recognising fake documents in recruitment
What is a counterfeit ID?
A counterfeit document is a fake form of identification, produced illegally to replicate an official document. Fraudsters use counterfeits to deceive hiring managers by presenting them with an entirely false identity.
Common examples of counterfeit ID include fake passports, driving licences, biometric residence permits (BRPs), and national insurance numbers.
During ID verification checks, warning signs of counterfeits could include:
- Inconsistent use of fonts
- Spelling mistakes
- Missing watermarks
- Differing layouts from officially issued documents
- Forged holograms
Even to the most vigilant eyes, counterfeits can be convincing as fraudsters can replicate security features used on officially issued documents. Use of ID scanning tools, UV light or document verification software is recommended in ID checking to add extra layers of protection.
What is fraudulent ID and how can you spot it?
Where counterfeits are produced illegally, fraudulent ID occurs when a genuine document has been unlawfully altered in some way, for example:
- A page of an official document has been substituted
- A photograph or image within the document has been changed
- Personal details within the document have been altered
In practice, use of fradulent ID could involve an applicant using a genuine passport that belongs to someone else to secure a role. It can also include tampering with official documents to alter identification details. For example, an applicant could digitally alter their date of birth on a birth certificate or change their name on a degree certificate.
Common indicators of fraudulent ID include:
- A realistic document with a photo that doesn’t match the identity of the individual.
- Address details that don’t align with verbal information from interviews.
When spotting use of fraudulent ID in the checking process, verifying applicant details against known data, or through registered databases (such as the Government Gateway) can help you spot inconsistencies in an application, which could indicate fraud.
Our tips for safeguarding against document fraud
When it comes to spotting document fraud in action, knowledge is power. It’s a lot easier to identify fraudulent attempts when you and your team know exactly what to look for.
To strengthen your first line of defence against fraud:
- Educate your teams on the various methods fraudsters use to falsify documents, from fake diplomas to altered government IDs.
- Familiarise your staff on the subtle differences between counterfeit and fraudulent ID.
- Ensure your teams can identify key security features in official documents such as watermarks, holograms, and UV markings.
How EPM could support you
Rising document fraud is a recruitment problem wider than the education sector. That's why we've partnered with the Home Office to deliver hands-on Document Fraud training sessions- equipping anyone working in recruitment with the confidence and skills to spot ID fraud before it becomes a risk.
These sessions go beyond theory, encouraging attendees to use their own ID in carrying out checks that they would use in real life to develop practical skills that comply with the latest guidance.
If you have a group that would benefit from this training, additional dates can be arranged for corporate bookings. Our team can work with you to discuss your specific requirements and secure a tailored training session for your team.
Conclusion
With falsified passports, tampered biometric residence permits and even fake diplomas on the rise, your internal team are key to forming the first line of defence against fraud. Ahead of recruitment season, now is the time to refresh your team and give them the skills to identify fraud with confidence.
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