Every time you apply for a job or to rent a new property, you are asked to provide references. This is a standard and expected part of the recruitment process, along with interview, filling in the application form, or getting a DBS check. References can provide insights into a potential employee's integrity and character. Most job seekers are more than happy to provide the details of previous employers, or people who can vouch for their character, but there are some who go to the extreme of providing false references.
Why Do Some Individuals Provide Fake References?
There are several reasons why applicants may falsify references and not every candidate who provides a fake reference is trying to cover up a past as a dangerous criminal. Some of the most common reasons for providing fake references are:
- To fill a gap: Applicants may use fake references to cover periods of unemployment they cannot explain or wish to hide, either because they’ve been sacked, or because they think a gap doing nothing looks bad.
- To exaggerate experience: People might fake references to appear more qualified for a position, than they actually are.
- To hide a bad employment situation: Individuals may give a fake referee name to stop you finding out from a previous employer that they were sacked, or left under a cloud.
What Is a Reference House?
Fake references have become a lot more sophisticated than simply asking your friend to pretend to be your old boss. Fraudulent "reference houses" can create fake paperwork or references for a fee. They might take telephone calls to confirm the applicant’s details, and provide written references similar to those you’d get from a genuine employer.
How to Spot a Fake Reference
If you’re trying to recruit new staff, then be aware of the rising issue of fake references. There are some key points to be aware of when trying to spot a fake reference or where the contact details of a referee seem “off”. These are:
- Question Discrepancies: Look for inconsistencies, such as a generic Gmail or Hotmail account being given as a email address rather than a corporate address.
- Cross-Check Details: Compare the reference details with the CV and application form. Is the referee associated with one of the previous employers?
- Social Media: Most candidates and managers in businesses will have at least some social media footprint. Check them out on portals such as LinkedIn to see if what you are being told matches other information you have found about them online.
- Engage a Vetting Specialist: For very senior positions, or for posts which are critical to your organisation’s success, consider outsourcing your pre-employment screening to the experts.
For applicants, providing false information could lead to a criminal record, but in an increasingly competitive jobs market, there is a growing number of candidates who are willing to take the risk. If you’re a candidate, don’t be tempted to try to fake references as companies across a wide range of industry sectors are becoming sophisticated in their checking.
