How to distinguish the quality of fake diplomas?
Although degree fraud is becoming more common and sophisticated, it doesn't take much for employers to protect themselves from its ill effects. We present Hedd's Magnificent Seven tips for identifying fake certificates and bogus websites.
1. Certificate components
Just as universities take increasingly sophisticated security measures to protect the integrity of their documents, fraudsters play catch-up and develop their own versions of crests, seals and holograms.
If in doubt, check the insignia on the certificate with the university website. Always ask to see the original certificate, not a photocopy.
The only sure way of not being conned by a fake certificate, of course, is to check the authenticity of the certificate with the university that issued it.
2. Certificate design
Fraudsters often believe that an ornate, Gothic typeface denotes prestige and tradition, and many of the fake certificates we have encountered use this technique.
In the real university world, this sort of typographical representation became outdated at around the same time as single gender common rooms and rustication.
By and large, most contemporary fake certificates are modelled on their real-world counterparts. However, there are still many old school fake certificates in circulation, such as this piece of calligraphy from Canterbury University. buy fake diploma online.
3. Certificate language
As well as a florid appearance, the Canterbury University degree certificate is weighed down by pompous and ponderous prose.
No university puts this sort of cod-medieval lingo on their degree certificates - if you come across it, be suspicious.
The use of Latin terminology on a degree certificate should also be a warning sign. Expressions such as 'cum laude' are popular with US universities, whereas UK higher education institutions (HEIs) use 'with honours'.
It has not been practice for UK providers to issue degree certificates in Latin for at least 10 years. Contemporary certificates are in English. Latin versions are occasionally issued as mementos, but are supplementary to the English version.