Can you trick a background check? Well, this is a question that has been asked for many years by job applicants looking to hide a few skeletons in their closets. While it is not ethical to try and trick your way through a pre-employment screening process, there are a few ways to ensure that your background check doesn’t catch any negative information. In this article, we will explore some of the commonly used tactics to bypass a background check.
As you probably know, background checks are used by employers to verify your information, check your criminal history, and get a better idea of who you are as a person. While these checks are meant to help companies make more informed hiring decisions, some people feel that they are intrusive and unnecessary. If you are one of those people, then you might be thinking about ways to cheat the system. But before you do, it’s important to note that trying to trick a background check is not only unethical, but it can also come with serious legal consequences.
So, what can you do to ensure that your background check doesn’t come back with any negative information? Well, for starters, you might want to be honest about your past mistakes. If you have a criminal record or have been fired from a previous job, it is best to disclose that information upfront. This way, the employer can make a more informed decision about your candidacy. Alternatively, you can choose to avoid applying for jobs that require background checks altogether. While this might limit your options, it will also save you the trouble of trying to trick your way through the screening process.
Ways to Falsify Education Information
Falsifying education information is one way to attempt to trick a background check. With a little bit of effort, it can be done. Here are some of the ways how:
- Create a fake diploma or degree
- Buy a degree from a diploma mill
- Claim to have attended a college or university that doesn’t exist
Creating a fake diploma or degree is probably the most time-consuming way to falsify education information. However, it can be the most convincing if done well. Some people have created fake diplomas or degrees by using graphic design software or by purchasing them from online vendors.
Another option is to buy a degree from a diploma mill. Diploma mills are fake universities or colleges that sell degrees to people who want to appear more educated than they really are. These degrees can be purchased for a few hundred dollars and can come with transcripts and other documents that make them look legitimate.
Finally, claiming to have attended a college or university that doesn’t exist is another way to falsify education information. This method is the easiest but also the least convincing. A background check will quickly reveal that the school doesn’t exist, and any claims of attending it will be dismissed as false.
Consequences of Falsifying Education Information
Falsifying education information can have serious consequences. If an employer finds out that a candidate lied about their education, they may be disqualified from the job or, in some cases, fired if already hired. In addition, if a person uses a fake diploma or degree to get a job in a regulated profession, such as medicine or law, they could be subject to criminal charges.
Conclusion
Falsifying education information is never a good idea. Not only is it dishonest, but it can also have serious consequences. It’s always best to be truthful about your education and qualifications. If you don’t have the education or qualifications necessary for a job, it’s better to work on obtaining them rather than risking your reputation and career by lying about them.
Remember, honesty is always the best policy.
| Method | Effort Required | Convincingness |
|---|---|---|
| Create a fake diploma or degree | High | Very convincing if done well |
| Buy a degree from a diploma mill | Low to moderate | Convincing to some employers |
| Claim to have attended a college or university that doesn’t exist | Low | Not convincing |
How to Hide Criminal History
Having a criminal history can hinder your job prospects and lead to a lot of unwanted attention from potential employers. This is why some people try to hide their criminal records during a background check. While it is always better to be honest about your past, here are some ways you can try to mask your criminal history:
- Change your name: One way to hide your criminal history is to legally change your name. This will make it harder for background check companies to find your criminal records. However, keep in mind that changing your name does not erase your criminal history. Your records will still exist, and if a thorough background check is conducted, they may still be uncovered.
- Expunge your record: Another option is to try to get your criminal record expunged. This means that your criminal record will be erased, making it impossible to find during a background check. However, expungement is not available for all criminal charges and can be a long and complicated process.
- Seal your record: If expungement is not an option, you can try to seal your criminal record. This means that your criminal record will be hidden from the public, but still accessible to certain government agencies and employers. However, sealing your record is also a difficult process and requires a court order.
Keep in mind that hiding your criminal history is not foolproof and can have serious consequences. If you are caught lying during a background check, you may not only lose the job you were applying for, but also damage your reputation and future job prospects. It is always better to be honest and upfront about your criminal history, as some employers may be willing to overlook certain charges or convictions.
If you are concerned about your criminal history affecting your job search, you may want to consider seeking professional help. A criminal defense lawyer or job coach can advise you on the best course of action and help you navigate the complex process of expungement or record sealing.
Common Criminal Records Employers Look for
Not all criminal records are created equal. Some criminal charges and convictions are more likely to show up during a background check than others. Here is a list of some of the most common criminal records employers look for:
| Criminal Offense | Description |
|---|---|
| Drug Offenses | Any drug-related offenses, such as possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs. |
| Sexual Offenses | Any sexual offenses, such as sexual assault, rape, or indecent exposure. |
| Theft and Fraud | Any theft or fraud-related offenses, such as shoplifting, embezzlement, or forgery. |
| Violent Crimes | Any violent crimes, such as assault, battery, domestic violence, or homicide. |
| DUI/DWI | Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated. |
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and that different employers may have different criteria for what they consider a disqualifying criminal offense. In general, employers will look at the severity and recency of your criminal history, as well as the relevance of the offense to the job you are applying for.
Creating a Fake Employment History
One of the easiest ways to trick a background check is by creating a fake employment history. Whether you have gaps in your employment history or have never had a job before, creating fake work experience can be tempting. However, it’s important to note that not only is this fraudulent but eventually, it will catch up to you. Here are a few methods people use to falsify their employment history:
- Using a friend or family member’s information: One way people falsify their work experience is by using the name and contact information of a close friend or family member. In this case, the potential employer could try to verify the information, and if they find out that you lied, your application could be denied.
- Creating a fake company: Some people go as far as creating a fake company to give themselves work experience. They may create a fake website, email address, and even generate fake references with the hopes of passing a background check.
- Forging documents: In some cases, people may even forge documents such as pay stubs or W-2s to create a fake work history. This method is not only illegal but is also very risky. If caught, you could face severe consequences.
If you find yourself lacking in work experience, it’s better to be honest and upfront about it. Instead, you can highlight other skills or education that may make up for the lack of experience. Honesty is always the best policy – even if it means not getting the job you applied for.
Remember, background checks are designed to protect employers from liability and ensure they’re hiring trustworthy candidates. Trying to deceive your way through a background check is never recommended, as it’s bound to catch up to you eventually.
If you’re worried that your employment history may not hold up to a background check, it’s always best to be honest and upfront about your past. Your potential employer may be willing to overlook small discrepancies as long as you’re truthful about them.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Appears to have more qualifications to employers | Is illegal and dishonest |
| Can fill gaps in employment history | May be discovered by a potential employer |
| Can increase chances of getting a job offer | Can lead to serious consequences if caught |
In the end, it’s never a good idea to create a fake employment history. Your best bet is always to be honest, showcase your skills and education, and hope that your potential employer values integrity just as much as qualifications when making hiring decisions.
Providing False References
One of the ways that people attempt to trick a background check is by providing false references. This involves listing people who are not actually former employers or coworkers and may not even exist.
While it may seem like a simple solution to try to cover up gaps in employment or bad references, providing false references is not only unethical but can also lead to serious consequences. Employers may discover the deceit and revoke a job offer or terminate employment if already hired. This can also damage one’s professional reputation and make it difficult to secure future employment.
How to Spot False References
- The reference can only be reached at a personal phone number or email address instead of a business contact.
- The reference has a vague job title or company name that cannot be confirmed.
- The reference seems unfamiliar with the individual’s work history or abilities.
The Risks of Providing False References
Not only is providing false references a breach of trust and can cause harm to one’s career, but it can also lead to legal repercussions. For example, if it can be proven that an individual provided false references with the intention of deceiving an employer, they could potentially be charged with fraud. This can result in fines or even imprisonment depending on the severity of the case.
It’s essential to be honest and transparent with potential employers during the hiring process. If there are gaps in employment or a less than ideal reference, it’s better to address these issues directly and provide an explanation. This shows integrity and demonstrates that the individual can be trusted to be truthful in other aspects of their job.
Conclusion
Attempting to trick a background check by providing false references is not a solution to employment issues. It can lead to severe consequences and damage one’s professional reputation. It’s important to be honest and transparent during the hiring process and address any potential red flags upfront.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can cover up negative employment history or references | Can lead to revocation of job offer or termination of employment |
| May seem like an easy solution to securing employment | Can result in legal repercussions and damage to professional reputation |
Ultimately, honesty is always the best policy when it comes to job applications and background checks.
Misrepresenting job titles and responsibilities
One common way applicants try to trick a background check is by misrepresenting their previous job titles and responsibilities. It is not uncommon for job seekers to exaggerate their achievements and embellish their job titles on their resumes. However, this can cause issues during the background check process.
Background check companies will verify an applicant’s job history and responsibilities with their previous employers. If the information listed on the background check report does not match the information provided by the applicant, it could raise red flags for the employer.
- Job titles: If an applicant claims to have held a managerial position when they were actually an entry-level employee, for example, it could indicate that they are attempting to misrepresent their qualifications.
- Responsibilities: Similarly, if an applicant claims to have been responsible for managing a team or handling important projects when they were not, it could indicate that they are trying to make themselves appear more qualified than they really are.
- Employment dates: Another common tactic is for applicants to falsify their employment start and end dates. This could be done to cover up employment gaps or to make it appear as though they have more experience than they actually do.
It is essential for companies to thoroughly vet applicants’ job titles, responsibilities, and employment dates through background checks to prevent any potential discrepancies or fraudulent activity. In addition, it is important for job seekers to be honest on their resumes and during the interview process. Misrepresenting themselves can result in not being selected for the job or worse yet, being terminated in the future.
Altering Personal Information
One common way people try to trick background checks is by altering or forging personal information. This can include changing their name, date of birth, or Social Security number. However, this can be extremely risky and illegal, and is not a recommended method for passing a background check.
- Changing your name: Some individuals may try to legally change their name to avoid a criminal record or other negative information from appearing on a background check. However, many background check companies use multiple identifiers, such as date of birth and SSN, to match records, so a name change may not be effective.
- Altering your date of birth: Changing your date of birth on a job application or in a background check may seem like a simple solution, but it can be easily detected and can result in legal consequences.
- Forging Social Security numbers: Trying to use a fake or stolen Social Security number to pass a background check is illegal and can result in serious consequences such as jail time or fines.
It’s important to keep in mind that background check companies use sophisticated methods to verify personal information, such as cross-checking with government databases and credit reports. Any attempt to intentionally alter or forge personal information is likely to be caught, and can damage your credibility and reputation.
Not only is altering personal information unethical, it can also be a red flag to potential employers. Employers may view attempts to deceive them as a lack of honesty and integrity, and this may lead them to not hire you.
| Types of personal information that are checked in a background check: | Why they’re important: |
|---|---|
| Full name | Ensures that all criminal records associated with your name are uncovered |
| Date of birth | Matches your records with government databases and credit reports |
| Social Security number | Used to verify your identity and check for criminal records and credit history |
| Education | Verifies your educational background listed on your resume or job application |
| Employment history | Verifies your job history and checks for any previous lawsuits or negative reviews |
In summary, altering personal information may seem like a simple solution to pass a background check, but it is not recommended or legal. The consequences of getting caught can be severe and long-lasting, and can harm your chances of getting hired in the future. It’s best to be honest and transparent in the job application process, and to trust that your qualifications and experience will speak for themselves.
Using a different social security number
We’ve all heard the stories – someone gets into trouble with the law or has other skeletons in their closet, so they try to start fresh by applying for a job with a new identity. Some might even go as far as using a different social security number to avoid being caught. But is this really a foolproof plan?
- First of all, it’s important to note that using a fake or borrowed social security number is illegal. If you get caught, you could face serious consequences, including fines and jail time.
- Additionally, many companies these days use advanced background check systems that can easily detect fraudulent social security numbers. They can quickly cross-reference your name, date of birth, and other identifying information to make sure it matches up with the correct social security number.
- Another issue is that if you do get hired under a false identity, your employer is required by law to report your wages to the IRS using your social security number. This could lead to red flags and investigations down the line.
So, can you trick a background check by using a different social security number? The short answer is no. Even if you manage to slip through the cracks initially, your true identity is bound to catch up with you eventually.
It’s always best to be honest and upfront during the hiring process. If you have a criminal record or other issues that might come up in a background check, it’s better to address them head-on and explain how you’ve moved past those challenges. Employers often appreciate honesty and transparency, and it’s possible that they might still decide to give you a chance despite any red flags in your background check.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can temporarily avoid past mistakes being uncovered | Using a fake or borrowed SSN is illegal |
| May give a sense of starting fresh | Advanced background check systems can detect fraudulent social security numbers |
| Your true identity is bound to catch up with you eventually |
So, if you’re ever tempted to try and trick a background check by using a different social security number, remember that honesty is always the best policy. It might be a tough conversation to have, but it’s better to face the issue head-on rather than risk being caught in a lie later on.
Fabricating professional certifications
One of the most common ways individuals try to deceive background checks is by lying about their educational and professional qualifications. It’s understandable to want to boost your resume to impress potential employers, but fabricating professional certifications is a criminal offense that can lead to serious consequences if caught.
- Buying fake degrees online. While it may be tempting to purchase a certificate from one of the many bogus universities online, it’s important to remember that most companies conduct thorough background checks that can quickly spot fraudulent degrees. Certification mills often produce worthless degrees that can be easily spotted by anyone who takes the time to investigate them.
- Forging official documents. Creating fake diplomas or forging transcripts is a criminal offense that can lead to heavy fines and jail time. Even if you get away with it initially, the deception could be discovered many years later, causing embarrassment and even losing your job.
- Exaggerating qualifications. While it may be tempting to expand your skills and experience on your resume, lying about qualifications is illegal. Employers have the ability to verify your qualifications with your previous schools or employers. If they find out you lied, you will likely be disqualified from the job you’re trying to land.
Ultimately, the risks are not worth the rewards. Fabricating professional certifications may seem like a quick and easy way to get ahead, but doing so can ruin your reputation and your future prospects. Instead of altering your qualifications, focus on gaining experience and skills that will make you a better candidate for the job.
If you’re worried about your background and qualifications, consider using a professional service that can conduct a detailed background check on your behalf. These services are regularly used by employers and can give you a clear understanding of what potential employers will see when they conduct a background check on you.
| Consequences of fabricating certifications | Examples |
|---|---|
| Legal consequences | Heavy fines, imprisonment, criminal record |
| Career consequences | Loss of job, damage to reputation, difficulty finding future employment |
| Personal consequences | Stress, embarrassment, guilt, shame |
It’s important to remember that honesty is always the best policy. Lying on your resume or in any other professional setting is not worth the potential consequences. Instead, focus on building your skills and gaining experience that will make you a valuable asset to any employer.
Concealing Drug or Alcohol Use
Drug or alcohol use is a commonly screened area in background checks. It is important to know that concealing drug or alcohol use is not only unethical but also illegal. Furthermore, it is can significantly damage personal and professional relationships, and harm one’s own health and wellbeing.
- Don’t tamper with urine samples: Many people attempt to tamper with urine samples to conceal drug or alcohol use. However, laboratories are well aware of these tactics and have sophisticated measures in place to detect such alterations. Such deceitful actions may lead to even further negative consequences beyond failing the background check, including legal troubles.
- It’s impossible to cheat a hair follicle test: Hair samples can detect drug use for up to 90 days or longer, making it nearly impossible to cheat a hair follicle test. Even if someone has recently gone through cosmetic procedures like hair straightening, color or using detox shampoos, the results of the hair sample test cannot be altered.
- Abstain from substance use: The most reliable way to pass a background check is to abstain from substance use entirely. This will eliminate the possibility of failing the drug and alcohol screening altogether.
It’s important to reframe one’s perspective on drug and alcohol use and prioritize their own health and safety above any other concerns. Substance use that jeopardizes personal or professional goals is not only unhealthy but also an issue that needs addressing. The health and wellness of themselves and those around them should always be a top priority.
Employers or anyone conducting background checks usually rely on laboratory results rather than taking an applicant’s word for it. As such, concealing drug or alcohol use can never be a long-lasting solution. Instead of worrying about finding ways to hide or cheat a drug test, individuals should seek proper help to overcome their drug or alcohol use issues.
| Pros of abstaining from drug or alcohol use | Cons of concealing drug or alcohol use |
|---|---|
|
|
Ultimately, concealing drug or alcohol use is not a wise choice and can have long-term negative consequences. Abstaining from substance use, seeking professional help, and taking care of one’s physical and mental health is always the best course of action.
Hiding a previous termination or resignation
One of the biggest fears individuals have when it comes to job hunting is their previous employment history. Having a termination or resignation in your work history can be a hindrance to obtaining new employment. The temptation to hide this information from potential employers may seem like a viable option, but is it possible to trick a background check and keep this information from being discovered?
- Create a new resume: One option is to exclude the job where you were terminated or resigned from your resume entirely. This may work for some job applications where you are only required to submit a resume. However, if a background check is conducted, this information may be discovered, and can be grounds for the employer to terminate the hiring process.
- Use a different version of your name: Some individuals may try to use a different version of their name to avoid detection. For example, if your legal name is Robert but you go by Bobby, you may consider using Bobby on your resume and job application. However, if a background check is conducted, any names you have used in the past can be discovered.
- Provide misleading information: Providing false employment dates or job titles may seem like a good idea, but it’s essential to remember that background checks can be extensive and thorough. Providing false information can be grounds for termination if it is discovered, and may leave you unable to obtain future employment with that company or others.
If you do have a termination or resignation in your work history, it’s best to be honest and upfront with potential employers. It’s possible that a company may still choose to hire you despite this history, especially if you are honest and explain the circumstances surrounding your departure. If you are concerned about your work history, you can use it as an opportunity to show how you have grown and learned from past mistakes.
It’s important to remember that trying to trick a background check is not only unethical, but it’s also illegal. Employers have the legal right to access your employment history and conduct background checks as a way of ensuring they are hiring someone who is honest and trustworthy. Attempting to hide a previous termination or resignation can result in being caught and losing out on potential job opportunities.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| May work for some job applications where you are only required to submit a resume. | This information may be discovered, and can be grounds for the employer to terminate the hiring process. |
| Some employers may still choose to hire you despite this history, especially if you are honest and explain the circumstances surrounding your departure. | Providing false information can be grounds for termination if it is discovered, and may leave you unable to obtain future employment with that company or others. |
| You can use it as an opportunity to show how you have grown and learned from past mistakes. | Trying to trick a background check is not only unethical, but it’s also illegal. |
Overall, it’s important to be truthful about your work history and to handle any negative aspects of it with professionalism and honesty. Attempting to hide a previous termination or resignation can have significant consequences and is not worth the risk.
Can You Trick a Background Check? FAQs
1. Can I be caught lying on a background check?
Yes, lying on a background check can easily be caught. Background check companies have access to various databases and can cross-check different pieces of information to verify their accuracy.
2. Can I just hide my criminal record?
No, you cannot hide your criminal record. Background check companies have access to criminal records from various sources, including government agencies, police departments, and court records.
3. Can I use a fake name to avoid being caught?
No, using a fake name is not a reliable way to avoid being caught on a background check. Background check companies can cross-reference personal information to verify the accuracy of information provided.
4. Can I pay someone to manipulate my background check?
No, paying someone to manipulate your background check is illegal and unethical. This can result in serious consequences, including criminal charges and loss of reputation.
5. Can I just not disclose information that I don’t want found?
No, you should always disclose all relevant information on a background check. Failure to do so can result in being disqualified from a job or other opportunities.
6. Can I get someone to vouch for me?
References can help, but background check companies will still verify the accuracy of information provided by the reference. Lying on a background check is never a reliable option.
7. Can I contact the background check company to alter information?
No, contacting the background check company to alter information is illegal and unethical. Any attempts to manipulate the results of a background check can result in consequences.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
In conclusion, it is never recommended to try to trick a background check. Background check companies have access to various databases and can verify the accuracy of the information provided. It is important to always disclose all relevant information and be honest during the background check process. Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope you found it informative and helpful. Please visit us again for more engaging content.