This question is about resume lies and fake references.

Is lying on a resume a crime?

By Zippia Team - Sep. 1, 2023

Lying on a resume is not a crime in most circumstances. Resumes, cover letters, and job applications are not considered legal documents, so you typically cannot be prosecuted for lying on these materials. However, there are exceptions to this rule.

For example, if you lie about your education (i.e. claiming you have a degree when you don't), you may face legal trouble in certain states and for certain positions.

As an example, Texas Penal Code SS32.52 states that "a person commits an offense if the person uses or claims to hold a postsecondary degree that the person knows is fictitious or has otherwise not been granted to the person...".

Even if not punishable by law, companies may still impose consequences for lying, meaning that even if lying isn't illegal, it's still not a good idea.

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