How to Identify Valid ISO Certificates from Fake or Low-Credibility Ones

In today’s business environment, distinguishing valid ISO certifications from non-valid ones is crucial. This guide helps you evaluate standard certificates more accurately.

Steps to Verify Certificate Authenticity

1. Certification Body Accreditation Check
   Valid certificates are issued by Certification Bodies (CBs) accredited by international accreditation organizations like IAF or recognized national bodies. In Iran, the National Accreditation Center of Iran (NACI) serves this role.
2. Official Markings Verification
   Valid certificates must include:
   – Certification body’s logo
   – Accreditation body’s logo
   – Unique registration number
   – Issue and expiration dates
3. International Validation
   For international businesses, certificates should preferably be issued by IAF-accredited bodies, especially important for companies operating in global markets.
4. Certification Process
   Valid certificates are issued after completing:
   – Initial assessment
   – Documentation audit
   – On-site inspection
   – Results review and corrective actions
   – Final certification
5. Timeframe and Costs
   Valid certification requires:
   – Adequate time (typically weeks to months)
   – Standard-compliant fees
   – Includes support services and periodic audits

Important Warnings

• Avoid centers promising instant certification (less than one week)
• Be cautious of unusually low-cost certificates (potential fraud risk)
• Unaccredited centers not providing audit reports are typically invalid