Identity theft, falsified CVs and economic crime. Since Ework launched its security services in Sweden in 2019, the company has helped clients uncover and prevent a wide range of security risks. Today, these services are available across all Ework’s markets.
Ework has long offered personnel security services upon client request, but it wasn’t until 2019 that the company began actively packaging and selling its own security services. Today, Protective Security Services (PSS) is an important part of Ework’s offering, delivered under the leadership of Tobias Flodeer, Protective Security Manager, and Olivia Bååth, Protective Security Coordinator at Ework Group.
The services are used by both public-sector organisations and private companies. Ework’s offering includes everything from drug testing and background checks to comprehensive security vetting. The type and level of control vary depending on the client’s needs.
Ework performs background checks at different levels depending on the assignment, the risk profile and the client’s requirements. This may involve verifying a person's identity, professional background, and mapping their digital footprint.
“Our ambition is to give the client a solid basis for decision‑making while respecting the individual’s privacy and handling all information with great care,” says Tobias Flodeer.
Organisations that operate in security‑sensitive environments or handle classified information often require more extensive vetting — a formal security clearance.
The purpose of a security clearance is to ensure that nothing in a person's background poses a potential security risk. The process may involve retrieving public records, identifying financial liabilities, and assessing other factors relevant to the organisation’s security.
“We consolidate information from many different sources — public records, social media, and assessments of an individual’s financial situation. We also verify CV details, such as grades and educational background,” says Tobias Flodeer.
This information‑gathering can be time‑consuming and complex but is something Olivia Bååth is experienced in from previous work in the security industry.
“It’s about knowing which information is relevant for the purpose and how it may be used correctly,” she says.
A security clearance also includes a thorough security interview, covering everything from family relationships and conflicts to potential substance use.
“We look for vulnerabilities that could make someone susceptible to blackmail or other pressures, and identify anything in their past or present that could make them unsuitable for certain roles,” says Tobias Flodeer.
Although the assessment largely relies on the interviewee’s own information, experienced assessors quickly detect inconsistencies or attempts to hide something.
On multiple occasions, Ework’s security team has discovered individuals using stolen identities, submitting falsified CVs, or referencing education and certificates that could not be verified. Other cases have revealed mismanaged business activities, financial issues, or other risk factors.
“In many organisations, we see a stark contrast between how employees and consultants are treated. Employees go through multiple interviews, tests and background checks — while consultants often enter the organisation with immediate access to systems and sensitive information without any checks at all,” says Tobias Flodeer.
However, as the global landscape becomes more uncertain, organisations are beginning to shift their approach. Interest in security vetting is increasing both in Sweden and internationally.
“Both private and public organisations are raising the bar when it comes to transparency and control over who gains access to their operations. More and more organisations realise the financial and reputational risks of bringing in the wrong person,” says Olivia Bååth.
At the end of last year, Ework launched its personnel security services in all countries where the company operates — with plans to expand further.
“As demand grows, we will roll out the services in more countries. India, for example, is a market where many companies rely heavily on consultants, so it’s highly likely these services will be in demand there as well,” says Tobias Flodeer.