Authenticity

INTRODUCTION

Explanation of Authenticity

Verification refers to a process through which credential evaluators establish the authenticity of documents presented to them, and check the documents in the file to make sure they are not fraudulent. Evaluating the authenticity of credentials is important, since the amount of forged qualifications seems to be on the rise. This comes as no surprise considering the value of certain qualifications, the rights attached in terms of immigration or the opportunities provided in terms of access to employment and further education.

Assumption of genuineness

On the other hand, it is equally important to be careful not to place applicants under undue scrutiny. Evaluators and competent authorities should assume that documents are genuine unless there is evidence that suggests On the other hand, it is equally important to be careful not to place applicants under undue scrutiny. Evaluators and competent authorities should assume that documents are genuine unless there is evidence that suggests otherwise. It is advised that verification be carried out by the recognition centre itself whenever possible, as this is often more reliable and faster.

Possible fraudulent documents

There are different types of fraudulent documents including:

• fabricated /fake documents;
• altered documents;
• illegitimately issued documents (for instance to persons who have not undertaken the required study and/or examinations for the presented qualification but instead gained the document by means of bribery).

Please note that in addition to the types of fraudulent documents mentioned here, credential evaluators should be aware of diplomas issued by diploma mills (Link to e-chapter “Diploma Mills”) and other authenticity issues, such as misleading translations.