Verifiable Credentials: The End of the Résumé?

Is the Résumé Becoming Obsolete?

As hiring evolves, so does background verification. According to Certn’s 2025 Trends in Background Screening, companies are shifting toward digital credentials to build a faster, more secure, and transparent hiring process. One of the biggest breakthroughs in this space? Verifiable Credentials (VCs).

What Are Verifiable Credentials (VCs)?

Imagine a digital locker where all your credentials – degrees, employment records, and certifications – are securely stored and instantly verifiable. That’s exactly what Verifiable Credentials (VCs) offer.

VCs are digital versions of identity documents issued by trusted organizations (like universities and employers) and stored securely using blockchain technology . Once issued, they cannot be tampered with, lost, or faked . Unlike traditional background checks that rely on manual verification, VCs allow instant, cryptographically secure validation, reducing fraud and administrative delays.

 

How Do VCs Work?

The VC lifecycle consists of three simple steps:

1. Issuance – A trusted entity (e.g., an employer or university) issues a digital credential to an individual.
2. Storage – The individual stores it securely in a digital wallet.
3. Verification – When needed, the credential can be presented and verified instantly through blockchain, eliminating the need for lengthy background checks.

By using VCs, companies can verify credentials in real time, reducing hiring delays and minimizing risks associated with fraudulent claims.

 

Why Are Verifiable Credentials Gaining Traction?

• Faster Hiring: Traditional verification can take weeks. With VCs, it happens in minutes.
• Fraud Prevention: Over 470 million candidates lie on their résumés. VCs remove the guesswork. ( https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/prime/technology-and-startups/india-has-over-47-million-fake-cvs-and-the-deceit-is-more-deep-rooted-than-you-think-/primearticleshow/111264715.cms?from=mdr)
• Candidate Control: Professionals decide who can access their credentials – enhancing privacy and security.

 

Conclusion

The hiring landscape is evolving as industries explore Verifiable Credentials (VCs) to streamline verification, reduce fraud, and improve efficiency. While traditional methods still dominate, sectors like IT, education, and finance are piloting digital credential solutions to enhance trust and security in hiring.