Detecting Faking in Hiring Assessments: A Digital Behavioral Biometric Approach

Applicant faking—people misrepresenting information on a job application—is a growing issue that undermines the integrity of the hiring process. Despite considerable research on applicant faking, existing theoretical frameworks and detection methodologies remain insufficient. Drawing on established theories from deception detection and digital behavioral biometrics, we iteratively refined an approach using mouse movements to detect applicant faking. Contrary to previous studies, which have consistently shown deceivers exhibit slower mouse movements and longer response times, our findings revealed an inverse effect. Fakers, who consistently overrated their skills and abilities, appeared to have experienced lower cognitive loads—with faster mouse movements and shorter response times—compared to truthful respondents. These results suggest that the cognitive load associated with faking is context-dependent, presenting a potential boundary condition in deception research. This study challenges prevailing theories and highlights the significant influence of environmental and task-specific factors on deceptive behaviors.