There are companies that attempt to sell fake GED and high school certificates. But how can you spot a fake GED certificate? Let us guide you! Don’t be deceived by fraudulent certificates.
In this comprehensive guide, we will highlight the key indicators of fake GEDs, providing you with the knowledge to protect yourself.
Discover the major warning signs and learn how to verify the authenticity of a GED to ensure your educational credentials are legitimate. Stay informed and stay ahead with our essential insights on detecting and avoiding fake GEDs.
What is a Fake GED Diploma?
A fake GED diploma is a novelty item designed to closely mimic a real GED (General Educational Development) diploma. It resembles an official document issued by recognized testing authorities, including key details typically present on genuine GED diplomas.
These details include the recipient’s name, issuance date, the state or jurisdiction where the GED was granted, and signatures of official representatives. To increase its authenticity, it may also incorporate elements like state seals, embossed stamps, and certificate numbers.
Are Online GED Certificates Fake?
There are many compelling reasons to earn a high school diploma: personal fulfillment, better job opportunities, and the ability to attend college.
However, aside from the GED test available on the official GED Testing Service website, other online certificates claiming to be GEDs are fake and will not be recognized.
The Online Proctored GED Test, is available in most states and U.S. territories, allowing candidates to take the GED test at home while being securely monitored by an online proctor.
While GED Ready Practice tests are available online as a training tool, they are not the actual GED test. These practice tests will not demonstrate your qualifications to colleges or employers, nor will they earn you a legitimate high school equivalency certificate.
There’s no need to pay for worthless documents when you can obtain an official state-issued diploma.
Beware of high schools that offer online tests or life experience surveys, where you can supposedly buy a fake GED. These are scams; colleges won’t accept them, employers will reject them, and you will be left feeling cheated.
Learn more: How to Get a GED
Do Fake GED and High School Certificates Work?
Unfortunately, some diploma mills prey on individuals seeking their GED certificates, providing only counterfeit tests and certificates that hold no value. Using a fake GED certificate or high school diploma can result in expulsion from school or job loss, making it a risk not worth taking. A legitimate GED is truly worthwhile.
Moreover, while some people intentionally purchase these fake certificates, others fall victim to scams. This highlights the importance of knowing how to avoid buying fake GED certificates in advance.
What Happens if You Get an Online Diploma?
You can purchase fake degrees for a few hundred dollars, often based on an online test that lacks any real assessment. Buyers end up wasting their money on worthless documents.
Some people have even lost their jobs or been expelled from school because of these fraudulent credentials.
Currently, twenty states have laws against using fake diplomas, and Congress is considering making the use of a fake high school diploma or GED certificate a federal crime.
The good news is that you can quickly and easily obtain your GED certificate by using Prepsaret’s online GED Test Prep resources for your test preparation.
How Can I Spot A Fake GED Certificate?
Sometimes, certificates are bought intentionally, while other times, people are unknowingly caught in a scam. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand how to avoid purchasing a fake GED certificate in advance.
1. Online GED Tests Are Only Administered on GED Testing Service
GED tests are available to eligible individuals who reside in participating states and achieve a “green” score on the GED Ready Practice Test. For comprehensive information about the official Online Proctored GED Test, visit the official site.
Be cautious of other websites that are not affiliated with GED and may offer fraudulent or invalid GED credentials.
2. They’re Attached to Non-Accredited Online High Schools
While some school districts are transitioning to online education, it’s important to distinguish between an accredited program from a school district catering to high school students and an online high school that claims it can grant you a GED diploma upon completion.
Be cautious of online schools and fraudulent programs.
To verify if the program you’re considering is accredited and can issue a legitimate GED certificate, start with an online search for information and reviews. If that doesn’t yield results, contact a local college or community college.
Remember, a GED certificate is only genuine if these institutions recognize and accept it.
3. They Offer a Test “Based On” the GED Test
A genuine GED test will never be “based on” the GED test. If the wording in the test deviates from that of the official GED test, it is not authentic.
4. They Try to Sell You a GED or High School Diploma
You should never be able to purchase a GED certificate without taking the test. Paying to bypass the test means your certificate is not legitimate.
Remember, there are fees associated with taking the official GED test unless you live in a state that offers free or discounted testing.
You can check your state’s test fees by visiting the state policy pages. A certificate is only official if you took the test at a testing center or through GED.com.
Earning a Valid GED Certificate
If you’ve discovered that your certificate is a fake, it’s crucial to obtain a legitimate GED credential. This is similar to having a fake driver’s license, which is not the same as having a real one and can lead to serious consequences.
Fortunately, earning a real GED certificate is both possible and worthwhile. By investing time in preparing for the test, you can pass and receive a valid certificate.
We offer helpful resources such as the GED Study Guide, which provides crucial information for effective preparation. This page can assist you in creating a customized study plan and staying organized throughout your preparation.
You can opt to answer our Free Questions in a single subject, multiple subjects, or all subjects. One significant benefit of the Free Questions is their ability to closely resemble the actual test.
Achieving your GED the right way sets you on a path to a better future, free from worry.
Related post: How Long Does it Take to Get Your GED?
When is a Fake GED Certificate Considered Fraud?
As previously noted, creating, buying, and owning a fake diploma is legal. However, it becomes fraudulent if you misrepresent it as authentic—such as by submitting it to a potential employer or college admissions office. Claiming a fake diploma is real constitutes a legal violation.
The consequences for fraud can vary based on the specifics of the case and the individual’s intent. Generally, submitting a fake diploma to a college may have less severe repercussions compared to using one to secure employment.
Nonetheless, both scenarios could result in long-term difficulties when seeking future job opportunities.
Additionally, some companies falsely advertise that they provide legitimate diplomas and misrepresent the documentation they offer.
If you have left high school, remember that the only way to obtain an official diploma is by passing a test in your state to earn a “high school equivalency.”
Read more: High School Equivalency
How Do Employers Verify the Validity of a Ged Certificate?
Employers may use various methods to verify the authenticity of a GED diploma when reviewing job applicants. The process can vary based on the employer’s policies and the specific job. Here are some common methods for verifying the legitimacy of a GED diploma:
1. Contacting the Issuing Authority:
Employers might reach out to the General Education Development Testing Service or the state department of education that issued the GED diploma to confirm its validity. These organizations can verify if the applicant genuinely earned a GED credential or an equivalent high school diploma.
2. Requesting Official Transcripts:
Applicants may be required to provide official transcripts from the General Education Development Testing Service or the state Department of Education, which detail their GED test scores and the date they passed. These transcripts offer concrete proof of GED completion.
3. Checking Accredited Testing Centers:
Employers might investigate the testing center where the applicant took the GED exams to ensure it is accredited and recognized by the state’s education authority.
4. Online Verification Services:
Some employers use online GED verification services offered by the GED Testing Service or state education departments. These services allow for electronic confirmation of GED credentials. One such service is the Education Verification Background Checks.
5. Cross-Checking with Resume and References:
Employers may compare the applicant’s GED information with their resume and reference checks. Discrepancies may raise concerns or confirm the legitimacy of the diploma.
6. Notarized Copies:
In certain cases, employers might request notarized copies of GED diplomas or transcripts for additional verification.
7. Background Checks:
Employers may use third-party screening companies to conduct background checks, including educational verification, which can help detect counterfeit diplomas.
It is crucial for job applicants to be truthful about their educational background, as providing false information can have serious repercussions, including possible termination if discovered later.
Employers generally take educational verification seriously to ensure they hire qualified and reliable candidates.
Strategies to Combat the Spread of Fake GED Diplomas
Fake GED diplomas are a serious threat to both individuals and society. The increasing number of these fraudulent credentials highlights the urgent need for a united effort to address their proliferation.
By exposing the reality of counterfeit GED diplomas and putting preventive measures in place, we can safeguard the integrity of our educational system, job market, and the ambitions of those pursuing genuine opportunities for advancement and success.
To tackle the problem of counterfeit GED diplomas, a comprehensive strategy is needed. Educational institutions and GED testing centers should bolster security protocols to deter the production and distribution of fake diplomas.
Employers should adopt rigorous verification processes to confirm the legitimacy of applicants’ credentials.
Additionally, government agencies should work with relevant parties to increase awareness about the risks associated with fake diplomas and impose stricter penalties for their creation and use.
FAQs
How to Spot a Fake GED or High School Diploma Online
To spot a fake GED or high school diploma online, check for signs of authenticity such as official logos, accreditation stamps, and contact information for verification. Verify the issuing institution’s legitimacy by contacting them directly or using official educational databases.
Look for inconsistencies in formatting, spelling, or language that might indicate forgery. Cross-check the graduate’s information against public records if available. Always use reputable sources and services for verification to avoid fraudulent documents.
How to Spot a Fake GED or High School Diploma Free
To spot a fake GED or high school diploma, check for irregularities in the document’s design, such as inconsistent fonts, misaligned text, or poor print quality. Verify the authenticity by contacting the issuing institution directly for confirmation.
Look for secure features like watermarks or holograms, which are difficult to replicate. Ensure the information on the diploma matches records from the school or testing authority. Lastly, be cautious of documents that lack official seals or signatures, as these can indicate forgery.
How to Spot a Fake GED or High School Diploma in California
To spot a fake GED or high school diploma in California, verify the document’s authenticity through the issuing institution or the California State Department of Education. Check for proper formatting, security features like watermarks, and accurate contact information.
Cross-reference details with official records. Authentic diplomas typically have a seal or signature from the issuing authority. Look for inconsistencies in font, paper quality, and printing. If unsure, use official verification services or consult educational institutions to confirm the legitimacy of the diploma.
How to Spot a Fake GED or High School Diploma in Texas
To spot a fake GED or high school diploma in Texas, check for these signs: Verify the document with the issuing institution or the Texas Education Agency. Look for inconsistencies in formatting, such as unusual fonts or missing security features.
Confirm the authenticity of the issuing seal or signature. Cross-check the personal details and dates for accuracy. Also, use official verification services or online tools provided by educational authorities to ensure the document’s legitimacy.
Is Prepsaret Accredited?
Prepsaret is an accredited online GED prep provider. Prepsaret offers 100% online GED classes that allow students to study at their own pace and on their own schedule.
The GED prep program is approved by the GED testing service and meets all requirements for obtaining GED credential.