In today’s world, the recruitment process has changed dramatically. With the rise of remote work and virtual hiring, businesses can access a larger talent pool and streamline recruitment. But alongside these advantages, new risks have emerged, particularly around interview fraud.
What Is Interview Fraud?
Interview fraud happens when candidates misrepresent themselves during the hiring process to gain an unfair advantage. There are several ways this can occur:
- Impersonation – A third party attends the interview in place of the actual candidate.
- Unauthorised Assistance – Candidates use hidden devices to receive answers or support during the interview.
- Fabricating Credentials – Providing false information about qualifications, experience, or skills.
- Tech Manipulation – Using software to alter a candidate’s voice or appearance in video interviews.
Real-World Examples
Interview fraud is more than just a risk — it’s happening now, and in ways that are more advanced than ever:
- Deepfake Technology in UK University Interviews (2025):
A number of UK universities recently reported applicants using AI-generated deepfake tech during video interviews. Out of 20,000 interviews, 30 were flagged for manipulation of voice or facial features. This illustrates just how far technology can be exploited in the recruitment process. - Outsourced Interviews in the Corporate Sector:
There’s a growing trend where candidates hire someone else to attend interviews on their behalf. In one example, a candidate’s imposter took part in the interview, and the actual person showed up for the job, creating significant problems for the employer.
These cases demonstrate just how real and sophisticated the problem has become.
Why Is Interview Fraud on the Rise?
There are a few key factors driving this increase in interview fraud:
- Remote Hiring – The shift to remote recruitment has made it easier for candidates to manipulate the process without face-to-face interaction.
- Advanced Technology – With access to tools like deepfakes and voice modulating software, candidates have more ways to cheat the system.
- Competitive Job Market – With high competition for roles, some candidates feel pushed to take shortcuts to stand out.
- Weak Verification Processes – Organisations without strong verification systems in place are more likely to fall victim to fraud.
How Can You Mitigate the Risk of Interview Fraud?
To protect your organisation, it’s essential to take action. Here are a few steps to consider:
- Enhanced Identity Verification – Use multi-factor authentication or biometric checks to confirm the candidate’s identity.
- Proctored Interviews – Bring in a third party to oversee the interview process to ensure fairness.
- Behavioural Interview Techniques – Ask specific questions that require candidates to give real examples of past experiences. This helps assess whether their responses are genuine.
- Technical Assessments – Include tests or practical tasks to verify a candidate’s skills independently.
- Thorough Background Checks – Always verify the candidate’s work history, qualifications, and references.
- Interviewer Training – Make sure interviewers can spot the signs of interview fraud and follow a clear, transparent process.
Using Technology to Combat Interview Fraud
Technology can be a powerful tool in preventing interview fraud. Here are some options:
- AI-Powered Screening Tools – Use AI tools that can analyse responses and spot inconsistencies or signs of deception.
- Secure Video Interview Platforms – Choose platforms with features like identity verification, recording, and playback, allowing you to review interviews if needed.
- Real-Time Monitoring – Implement tools that can detect unusual behaviour during interviews.
- Blockchain for Credentials – Use blockchain to create secure, tamper-proof records of a candidate’s qualifications and work history.
Act Now Before Its Costs…
The landscape of recruitment is evolving, and with it, the risks of interview fraud. However, by putting the right processes and technology in place, organisations can protect their hiring procedures and ensure that the best candidates are selected based on authenticity and merit.
Want to find out more about how to protect your business from interview fraud?
Talk to our team about MeaConnexus, our secure video interview platform developed by Issured Limited, designed to help businesses hire with confidence.
