CV cloning deceives employers

A survey, carried out by information specialist Experian Background Checking, has found that organised criminals are copying CV’s posted on the internet to gain jobs where that can commit fraud. By using cloned career histories the criminals trick recruiters into hiring them. The survey highlighted that 63% of professional people include career details in their personal profiles when using web-based mediums and social networking sites.

When in the job, the criminals use their position to obtain sensitive information or otherwise commit fraudulent acts within the company that has employed them. The advice from security experts is for companies not to take CV’s at face value. Employers are advised to ask detailed questions at interviews and double check career histories for candidates they are interested in hiring.

Recent surveys have found fraud to be nearing record levels. In 2008, fraud by managers and employees grew to £228m, up from £81m in 2007.

(Published by UK Legal News - March 18, 2009)