Sharp increase in screening companies as concerns over fake diplomas rise
The number of screening agencies in the Netherlands increased significantly over the past few years as more and more employers turn to external forces to vet applicants. Recent investigations exposing fake diplomas and the rise of artificial intelligence have made employers increasingly wary of hiring new people, AD reports.
Recent figures from the Dutch Chamber of Commerce show that the number of screening agencies registered in the Netherlands increased from 268 in 2020 to 353 this year. And business is booming.
Screening agency Disa Global Solutions counts healthcare institutions, banks, and law firms among its clients, director Harm Voogt told AD. “Every company’s question is the same: is Pietje really who Pietje says he is?” Voogt said.
The screening agency checks diplomas, work experience, identity documents, BIG registrations, Certificates of Good Conduct, and conducts interviews to determine someone’s integrity. Companies can do many of these checks themselves, Voogt said. “You don’t actually need us for it, but checking everything is a hassle and results in a lot of paperwork. Many employers prefer to outsource that.”
The Dutch Data Protection Authority stressed that companies can only screen an applicant if there is a “legitimate interest.” Companies must always inform applicants and employees in advance about the screening.
