A recent background check for one of PeopleCheck’s clients in recruitment involved validation of a candidate’s degree from the UK. The candidate advised that they completed their studies externally; however, the university had since closed. The candidate provided both a degree certificate and transcript.
When our Research Team undertook enquiries, they were unable to locate any evidence of a webpage for this university, except for memorabilia. Extensive internet research indicated that the university was a degree mill and offered qualifications based on employment history and life experience.
This candidate misrepresented themselves by claiming a qualification they did not have. Particularly if required to undertake a role, this type of deception can be very harmful to an employer. This case study indicates the benefits of actually validating qualifications and not simply viewing a certificate!