In the job search process, fraudsters have increasingly targeted job seekers with fake requests for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, tricking them into paying for checks that do not exist. These are known as advanced fee scams, where individuals are asked to pay upfront for recruitment services, including a supposed DBS check. With scammers using sophisticated techniques, such as well-designed WhatsApp or text messages, it’s vital to be aware of these tactics and protect yourself. This article will highlight the importance of DBS checks, the types of checks, and how to spot fake requests.
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Understanding DBS Checks
A DBS check is a background check on an individual’s criminal record, and it’s used by employers to verify that a potential employee is suitable for specific roles. These checks are crucial in roles that involve working with vulnerable people, such as children or adults in care settings.
There are several types of DBS checks:
Basic DBS Check: This is available for any position and costs £18. It shows unspent convictions and cautions.
Standard DBS Check: Priced at £18, it is available for certain roles and includes convictions and cautions held on the Police National Computer (PNC), subject to filtering rules.
Enhanced DBS Check: This £38 check is designed for more sensitive roles, like teaching or social work. It includes both PNC information and relevant intelligence from local police.
Enhanced DBS Check with Barred Lists: For roles in regulated activities, like working with children or vulnerable adults, this £38 check also checks if the individual is on the list of people barred from working in such positions.
Why Are DBS Checks Important?
DBS checks play a vital role in safeguarding, ensuring that people in sensitive roles do not pose any threat to the vulnerable individuals they work with. For example, schools and care homes rely on DBS checks to confirm that staff members do not have criminal records that could endanger students or patients. The checks protect not only the public but also the reputation of organisations by ensuring they hire trustworthy individuals.
Spotting a Fake DBS Check Request
Unfortunately, scammers are exploiting the DBS process to steal money and personal information from job seekers.
Eligibility Awareness: Not all jobs require a DBS check. These checks are generally needed for jobs in education, healthcare, social care, and security. If your role doesn’t fit into these categories and someone is requesting a DBS check, it could be a scam. It’s always best to verify the eligibility for a check on the official DBS website or consult with your prospective employer.
Watch for Outdated Terminology: If a company asks for a “CRB check,” it’s likely a red flag. In 2012, the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) was replaced by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in England and Wales. Genuine employers will refer to the current DBS system, not the outdated CRB terminology.
DBS Logo Misuse: Be wary of organisations that display the DBS logo on their website. Registered organisations are not permitted to use the DBS logo, so seeing it on a site can be a sign of a scam. Instead, ensure that the organisation is listed as a registered body that is authorised to carry out checks.
Verification of the Processing Organisation: Always ask who will be processing the DBS check. If the employer says they are doing it, you can contact DBS or Disclosure Scotland to confirm their legitimacy. If an Umbrella Body is handling the check on behalf of an employer, verify the body’s authenticity through the DBS’s list of approved organisations. If the organisation is not listed, it’s a sign the request may be fraudulent.
Industry-Specific Regulations: In certain industries, only specific bodies are authorised to carry out checks. For instance, in the security sector, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) is usually the only organisation allowed to conduct background checks. If someone outside this body asks you for a DBS check, particularly with an upfront fee, it could be a scam.
Upfront Payment Requests: While it’s common for employers to arrange and pay for DBS checks themselves, scammers may ask you to pay for the check upfront. If you are being pressured to make a payment quickly, especially through non-traceable methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency, it’s time to investigate further. Always remember the standard costs for DBS checks: £18 for Basic and Standard checks, and £38 for Enhanced checks.
Additional Tips to Stay Safe
In addition to the points above, there are a few more ways to safeguard yourself from DBS-related fraud:
Check the Employer’s Credentials: Do some research on the company offering the job. Check their website, read reviews, and see if they have an active social media presence. If the company appears suspicious or has little online presence, it could be a scam.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Be wary of employers who push for quick decisions, ask for personal details too early in the recruitment process, or seem overly eager to hire without proper vetting.
Consult the Official DBS Website: The DBS website offers detailed guidance on who can request a check and provides a list of approved Umbrella Bodies that are registered to process checks. It’s always a good idea to cross-check any information you’re given with what’s listed there.
DBS checks are essential for safeguarding vulnerable individuals in specific sectors, but scammers are increasingly using fake DBS requests to trick job seekers. By staying informed about the legitimate process for DBS checks, understanding the costs, and being cautious with any unusual requests, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Always use organisations that are registered and approved by the UK government to process DBS checks and verify the legitimacy of any requests during your job search.