Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions
A background check is an investigation of someone’s personal and professional history. Background checks are often requested by employers on job candidates and by landlords on potential tenants. They can also be requested by individuals who want to learn more about someone, such as a new romantic partner.
Background checks can be conducted online, through databases that collect this type of information.
While background checks can help make decisions about whether or not to hire someone or rent to them, it’s important to remember that they are not always accurate. Information found in a background check may be out of date, incomplete, or simply wrong. It’s always a good idea to verify any important information that you find in a background check with other sources before making any decisions.
What Data Is Used for Background Checks?
When you order a background check, the company will likely collect some personal information from you, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth. They may also collect information about your business, such as your business name and address. In most cases, the information included in the report will come from public records, such as criminal records, court records, and credit reports.
What’s Included in a Background Check Online?
There are several different types of background checks, and the type of check you request will depend on your needs. For example, an employer might request a criminal background check, while a landlord might request a credit check. However, most online background checks will include some combination of the following:
- Criminal background checks: These checks search for criminal records, such as arrests, convictions, and outstanding warrants.
- Credit checks: These checks search for information in your credit reports, such as late payments, bankruptcies, and foreclosures.
- Employment history: Many online background checks will include a search of your employment history. This can help employers verify the information you have provided on your resume or application.
- Educational background: Some online background checks may include a search of your educational background. This can be helpful for employers who want to verify your credentials.
- Professional license verification: These checks verify the information you’ve provided about any professional licenses you hold, such as a driver’s license or nursing license.
It’s important to remember that not all online background checks are created equal. The type of information included in the report will vary depending on the company you use and the type of check you request. Be sure to ask about what’s included in the report before you order one.
Are Social Media Background Checks Legal?
Social media background checks are legal, but there are a few things you should know before requesting one. First, the information included in the report will likely be limited to what’s publicly available on the social media site. Second, your personal and business data may be at risk if you use a company that does not have adequate security measures in place. Finally, you may inadvertently reveal information that you would prefer to keep private, such as your criminal history.
How Is My Personal and Business Data Protected?
When you request a background check online, the company you use will likely collect some personal information from you, such as your name, address, and Social Security number. They may also collect information about your business, such as your business name and address.
It’s important to make sure that the company you use has a good reputation for protecting your personal and business data. Ask about their security measures and be sure to read their privacy policy before you provide any information.
How Do I Dispute the Accuracy of My Background Check Report?
If you believe that the information in your background check report is inaccurate, you can dispute it with the company that prepared the report. You will need to provide documentation supporting your claims, such as a court document or police report. The company will then investigate your claim and make any necessary corrections to the report.
What Are the Limitations of a Background Check?
While background checks can be helpful, they are not perfect. First, the information included in the report will likely be limited to what’s publicly available. Second, your personal and business data may be at risk if you use a company that does not have adequate security measures in place. Finally, you may inadvertently reveal information that you would prefer to keep private, such as your criminal history.
Is There a Way to Delete My Background Check Information?
In most cases, no. Once your information is in a database, it can be difficult to remove it. However, you may be able to have your background check report sealed or expunged in some cases. This means that the information will not be accessible to the general public, but it may still be available to law enforcement or other government officials.
If you’re concerned about your background check information is available online, you can take steps to limit what is included in the report. For example, you can request a copy of your criminal record from the court and ask that any outdated or inaccurate information be removed. You can also contact the credit bureaus and ask them to remove any old or incorrect information from your credit report.
While you may not be able to delete your background check information completely, taking these steps can help to ensure that the available information is accurate and up-to-date.
Background checks are a common part of the hiring process, but they are not always accurate. If you’re concerned about your background check information, you can take steps to limit what is included in the report. However, in most cases, it’s not possible to completely delete your background check information.
How Do I Order a Background Check?
You can order a background check online from a variety of companies. Be sure to research the company before you provide any personal or business information. Once you’ve found a reputable company, simply enter the required information and pay the fee. Background checks typically cost between $20 and $100, depending on the type of check you request. In most cases, you’ll receive the report within a few days.
What Are the Risks of Background Checks?
There are a few risks to keep in mind when requesting a background check online.
- First, there is always the possibility that the information included in the report is inaccurate or out-of-date.
- Second, your personal and business data may be at risk if you use a company that does not have adequate security measures in place.
- Finally, you may inadvertently reveal information that you would prefer to keep private, such as your criminal history.
These risks are relatively small, however, and can be easily avoided by taking a few precautions. First, be sure to verify any important information included in the report with other sources. Second, only use companies that have a good reputation for protecting your personal and business data. Finally, be thoughtful about what information you share when requesting a background check.
Final Thoughts
Background checks can be a valuable tool for employers, landlords, and others who need to screen potential employees or tenants. However, it’s important to understand what’s included in the report and how to interpret the information. With a little bit of knowledge, you can use background checks to your advantage without exposing yourself to unnecessary risks.