Quick answer: To check a possible fake ISO certificate, verify the certificate number, certified entity, standard, certificate scope, issuing certification body, accreditation body, status, and expiry date using IAF CertSearch or the relevant accredited source.
Last checked: June 4, 2026. Registry Check Guide is not a government agency, regulator, certification body, law firm, or official registry. Use this page as a practical guide to read official records before you rely on them.
Official sources to start with
| Official source | Use it for |
|---|---|
| IAF CertSearch | Global database for accredited management system certification checks. |
What to check first
- Copy the certificate number, company name, standard, issuing body, and expiry date from the certificate.
- Search IAF CertSearch by certificate number, company name, or standard.
- Compare the certified entity name, address, standard, scope, certification body, and status.
- Check whether the certification body is accredited for the relevant standard and scope.
- Ask the issuer or accreditation body for confirmation if the certificate is missing or high-risk.
How to read the record
| Field or claim | How to interpret it |
|---|---|
| Certificate number | Useful for direct lookup, but formatting can vary by issuer. |
| Certification body | The organization that issued the certificate; it should be accredited for the relevant scope. |
| Accreditation body | The body that accredits the certification body. |
| Scope | Defines what the certificate actually covers; it may be narrower than marketing claims. |
What this record does not prove
- An ISO certificate does not prove product quality by itself.
- A logo on a PDF does not prove accredited certification.
- A certificate for one location or scope does not cover every branch, product, or service.
Red flags
- The certificate body cannot be verified.
- The certificate number returns no result and the issuer gives no explanation.
- The scope is vague, mismatched, expired, suspended, or unrelated to the seller's claim.
Related checks
FAQ
Can IAF CertSearch verify every ISO certificate?
It is a strong starting point for accredited management system certifications, but some records may require direct confirmation from the issuer or accreditation body.
Does ISO 9001 mean a product is certified?
Not necessarily. ISO 9001 usually relates to a quality management system, not automatic product approval.
What if the certificate is expired?
Treat the claim as unverified until the organization provides a current official certificate or registry record.