Stay Vigilant, Stay Informed
In the quest for employment, job seekers face numerous challenges, not least of which are the sophisticated scams that prey on their aspirations. With the Home Office launching the Stop! Think Fraud campaign, the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) steps up to offer crucial guidance to ensure a safer job search experience.
This comes at a pivotal time when fake DBS check scams, particularly advanced fee scams, are on the rise, exploiting job seekers’ willingness to secure employment.
Recognize and React to Red Flags
Eligibility and Outdated Requests
Understanding the eligibility criteria for Standard or Enhanced DBS checks is your first line of defense against scams. These checks are mainly required for specific roles within the education, healthcare, and security sectors. If a job outside these sectors requests a DBS check, proceed with caution.
Additionally, watch out for outdated terminology; references to the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau), replaced by the DBS in 2012, may indicate a scam.
- Eligibility criteria – not all positions require a Standard or Enhanced DBS check. These checks are typically necessary for roles like education, health and social care, and security. If your job does not fall into these categories, and you are asked for a DBS check, it might be a fraudulent request. Check the eligibility criteria or consult with DBS. Information is provided online.
- Outdated requests – be aware of outdated requests using archaic terminology. In 2012, the Criminal Records Bureau (or the CRB) as it was known then was replaced by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in England and Wales. If someone is still asking for money for a ‘CRB check’, it is time to investigate further. Genuine requests will reference the current DBS system.
- DBS Logo – organisations that are registered with DBS are not permitted to use the DBS logo on their websites. If a website contains the DBS logo it could indicate it is not genuine.
- Verification process – always enquire about who is processing the DBS check. If it’s the employer, contact DBS or Disclosure Scotland to confirm their legitimacy. If it’s an Umbrella Body that is carrying out DBS checks on behalf of other employers, verify their authenticity and ensure the employer is registered to use their service. A list of Umbrella Bodies is available online, so you can check and see if the organisation appears and is legitimate.
- Industry Bodies – for those in the security industry, usually only the Security Industry Authority (SIA) is permitted to run checks for this line of work. If you’re asked for an upfront payment for a check, verify its authenticity. Stay vigilant, especially when it comes to industry-specific regulations.
- Cost Consideration – the cost for a Basic check is £18 and is available for any position. A standard check costs £18, is available for certain roles, and shows convictions and cautions held on the Police National Computer (PNC), subject to filtering. An Enhanced check costs £38 and is sent to police forces so they can carry out searches on their local intelligence systems and decide if any relevant information should be released. An Enhanced check with Barred Lists is also £38 for those involved in regulated activity.
Organizations registered with DBS may charge an administration fee for their services, which is separate from the DBS fee. However, exercise caution if asked to pay excessive amounts. Most legitimate organizations aim to guide you through the onboarding process without demanding upfront payment. If unsure, refrain from paying any money during the recruitment process.
DBS is hosting a LinkedIn webinar to provide tips and sector guidance for job seekers to navigate their employment search safely. The webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21st, starting at 2 pm and lasting around 15 minutes. DBS will monitor and respond to comments or questions during the live webinar.
Ian Johnston, Executive Director of Operational Services at DBS, emphasized the importance of swift action in combating job scammers. He stated,
“By following these steps, job seekers can minimize the impact of illegal scams and ensure a safer job-searching journey. DBS’ Regional Outreach team offers localized support to organizations and networks, providing guidance on safeguarding. DBS remains committed to offering comprehensive guidance and support to help individuals stay vigilant in the ever-evolving landscape of job scams.”
Sources: THX News & Disclosure and Barring Service.
