Accenture and Cognizant Layoff Thousands of Employees Due to Fake Documents and Failed Background Checks
Accenture, Cognizant, Layoffs, Fake Documents, Failed Background Checks
In the current economic climate, several technology companies are using various reasons to reduce their workforce through layoffs. Recently, Cognizant laid off over 20,000 employees, which accounts for 6% of its total workforce, due to failed background checks. Accenture, on the other hand, fired over 2,000 employees in the New Year for submitting fake documents during the hiring process.
The companies have been conducting credential checks for employees hired during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many more employees are expected to be laid off after the completion of the checks. Accenture’s India unit fired employees found to have used fake documents and experience letters to obtain jobs at the company. Similarly, Cognizant India reported a 6% involuntary attrition rate in Q2 due to forged documents and fake experience letters.
As companies resume work-from-office, background checks have become more stringent, leading to an increase in the number of layoffs due to fake documents and moonlighting. The term “involuntary attrition” is often used as a euphemism for layoffs, as noted by Cognizant India’s head, Rajesh Nambiar.
Other companies, including Twitter and Meta, have also experienced significant layoffs due to financial constraints. Although cost-saving has been the primary motive behind these layoffs, thousands of employees have lost their jobs abruptly, causing significant impact on their livelihoods.
As corporations increasingly prioritize employee background checks, it is essential for job applicants to be truthful in their documentation and avoid fraudulent activities to prevent losing their jobs.