The advent of technology and the Internet age has allowed access to countless resources and information, making the world more connected. This increasing interconnectedness is undeniably useful, especially when attempting to screen or vet potential employees, tenants, or even business partners. Hence, the growing prominence of online background checks.
What is an Online Background Check?
An online background check is a process where you can use web-based services to find out about an individual’s criminal history, education credentials, employment history, and other activities from their past. It has four main types – criminal background checks, employment background checks, credit background checks, and personal background checks – each providing distinct information.
However, it is essential to understand that these checks must abide by the Fair Credit and Reporting Act (FCRA). Meaning, if the information pulled from these checks is to be used to make decisions about employment, housing, or anything similarly substantial, it should be done by a consumer reporting agency as defined by the law.
Why are Online Background Checks Important?
Online background checks are an important tool for individuals and companies alike. For businesses, they are vital for hiring processes, reflecting their necessity in pre-employment checks. These checks offer an in-depth look at a potential employee’s history, providing insights beyond what the resume shows.
For individuals, these checks can help them verify the legitimacy of people they met online, whether for personal or business reasons. Also, they are of great use in verifying the accuracy of their records, ensuring their tidy reputation and that they are free of errors or discrepancies.
The Process of Conducting an Online Background Check
The protocol for conducting an online background check typically commences when an individual or company decides to seek information on a particular person. It involves selecting a reliable service provider, furnishing the person’s basic details like name, age, and address, following which the service presents the check’s results. It may yield details from the person’s criminal records, credit scores, academic qualifications, career history, and many other aspects.
Pre-Employment Checks
One of the most common uses of an online background check is for pre-employment checks. Employers use these checks to verify the information provided by the applicants. Importantly, it helps reduce the risk of hiring employees who may pose a threat to the workplace.
Pre-employment checks have several components. It can verify an applicant’s education, confirm previous employment, and expose any criminal history. Depending on the role and its requirements, it may also involve checking driving records or performing drug tests. These information help make informed decisions about an applicant’s suitability for a position.
Conclusion
Online background checks have become a pivotal tool in today’s interconnected world. From securing safe and capable employees through pre-employment checks to verifying personal connections, these checks can prevent potential risks and inform decisions. However, it is crucial to remember these tools are meant to ensure transparency and security, not to invade anyone’s privacy or discriminate.