In today’s competitive job market, fake diplomas are a growing problem, and forgers are getting better at producing forgeries. Whether you’re an employer, an academic institution, or an individual verifying academic credentials, it’s critical to recognize the red flags of fake diplomas. Here’s how to spot a fake diploma:

1. Suspicious institution name

Check accreditation: Fake universities often mimic the real thing (e.g., pretending to be “Harvard International University” instead of the real Harvard University). Any diploma has an embossed seal, a gold stamp, and the principal’s signature. Many websites make fake diplomas that are identical to the real thing. It is generally impossible to tell the real from the fake.

• Poor printing and design quality

Blurred seals or logos: Real diplomas often use embossing, holograms

Inconsistent fonts/spacing: Official degrees follow strict university formatting standards.

3. Missing security features

No digital verification: Many universities now offer QR codes or unique registration numbers for online verification.

Forged signatures: Compare with samples on the school’s website.

4. Unrealistic degree claims

“Instant degree” or “life experience” certificates are almost always scams.

Verify graduation date: Some fake certificates have graduation dates that predate the university’s founding.

Use a third-party service: Companies like the National Student Clearinghouse or DiplomaVerify can verify degrees.