Test your java applicants:
Phone test. Most will fail the most basic phone interview questions about Strings.
Written test. Keep it simple.
A few developers manage to get senior positions in companies by merit of their length of time with the organization, or by fraudulently misrepresenting themselves. There is nothing that can be done to prevent this other than by implementing a simple testing process.
So try giving an example piece of bad code and ask them to tell you what churns their stomach about it. An experienced person won't hesitate. Or ask them about something they did not like about a java experience on their resume.
The written test does not have to be difficult, just the basics – most fraudsters fail a simple phone test, but the written test will weed out those who can memorize facts like a java book.
