Background checks are a powerful tool that can provide valuable insights into an individual’s history.
However, using these services comes with ethical and legal responsibilities.
Below are detailed guidelines on what you should and shouldn’t do when utilizing background check services.
Do’s: Responsible and Ethical Use
- Use Background Checks for Lawful Purposes
Background check services are intended for personal, lawful, and ethical uses. You can use them to verify connections, learn more about someone you’re interacting with, or confirm details about your own public records. Always ensure your purpose aligns with the law and does not infringe on the rights of others. - Respect Individual Privacy
While background checks access publicly available information, respecting the privacy of the individuals you search for is paramount. Always use this information with discretion and avoid unnecessary sharing or misuse of sensitive details. - Verify Your Own Information
One of the most responsible ways to use a background check is to review your own public records. Doing so can help ensure the accuracy of the information potential employers, landlords, or others may find about you. It’s also a great way to detect and address inaccuracies or fraud in your records. - Conduct Searches for Personal Safety or Reconnection
Background checks can be a helpful tool for personal safety, such as verifying someone you’ve met online or researching someone you’re entering into a financial or personal relationship with. They’re also a great way to reconnect with long-lost friends or family members while ensuring ethical use of the information. - Use Information for Non-Discriminatory Decisions
If the information influences a personal decision, such as who to trust or engage with, make sure your decision-making process is free from bias or prejudice. The data should be used objectively and in compliance with applicable laws regarding discrimination.
Don’ts: Prohibited and Unethical Uses
- Don’t Use Background Checks for Employment Screening
Background checks from general public search services are not designed to comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This means they cannot legally be used to screen job candidates or make employment decisions. Employers must use FCRA-compliant services for these purposes. - Don’t Use for Tenant Screening or Rental Decisions
Similarly, these services are not appropriate for evaluating prospective tenants. Landlords are required to use tenant screening services that comply with the FCRA to ensure accuracy and fairness in rental decisions. - Don’t Harass, Stalk, or Intimidate Individuals
It is strictly prohibited to use background check information to harass, stalk, or intimidate someone. Such actions are not only unethical but also illegal and can result in severe legal consequences. Always use the information responsibly and respectfully. - Don’t Use for Financial, Credit, or Insurance Decisions
The information from background checks cannot be used to determine creditworthiness, insurance eligibility, or financial loan decisions. These types of assessments require specific, regulated data that meets compliance standards, which general background check services do not provide. - Don’t Assume Data is Always Complete or Error-Free
While background checks can provide valuable insights, the data comes from public records that may contain errors, omissions, or outdated information. Use the data as a reference point, but always verify critical details through other sources when accuracy is essential.
Why Following These Guidelines Matters
Adhering to these do’s and don’ts ensures that you’re using background check services responsibly and ethically. Misuse of these tools can lead to significant legal consequences, damage to someone’s reputation, and breaches of privacy. By respecting the boundaries of these services, you help maintain trust and accountability while protecting yourself and others.
When used properly, background checks can be an invaluable resource for personal safety, reconnection, and informed decision-making. Always act in good faith, respect privacy, and operate within the bounds of the law to ensure a positive and lawful experience.