Do you know what information is included in a background check? If not, then you’re in for a surprise. A comprehensive background check will include data from many different sources, including public records, social media platforms, and credit reports.
It means that any potential employer or landlord will have access to a great deal of information about you – whether or not it’s accurate. In this article, we look at the types of information included in a background check and how to protect your privacy.
Table of Contents
Public Records
Public records can be one of the main sources of information included in a background check. These records can include anything from criminal history to bankruptcy filings. In most cases, public records are available to anyone who requests them. It means that your potential employer or landlord will be able to access this information without your permission.
There are a few ways to protect yourself from the negative implications of public records. First, you can request a copy of your record and review it for accuracy. If there are any errors, you can contact the appropriate agency to correct them. Second, you can limit the amount of personal information that is publicly available online.
Many social media platforms allow you to control who sees your profile information. Finally, you can request that your record be sealed or expunged if eligible.
Social Media Platforms
Another common source of information for background checks is social media platforms. Many employers will search for applicants on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. They may also use other platforms, such as Instagram and Snapchat. In most cases, the information found on social media will not be used to make hiring decisions. However, there have been some cases where employers have rejected applicants based on their social media activity.
For example, an applicant who posts derogatory comments about protected groups may be considered unsuitable for a position that involves working with those groups. An applicant who frequently posts photos of themselves engaged in illegal activities may also be rejected.
Suppose you are concerned about what information from your social media platforms may be included in a background check. In that case, it’s important to review your privacy settings and limit the amount of personal information that is publicly available. Be careful when posting online, as anything you say can be used against you in a background check.
Credit Reports
Another common type of background check is a credit report. This report will show any current or past financial problems you have had. It will also include information about your credit history, such as whether you have made late payments or filed for bankruptcy. Employers will not use this information to make hiring decisions in most cases. However, there are some positions where good credit history is required.
For example, jobs that involve handling large amounts of money or managing other people’s finances may need a credit check. If you are concerned about your credit report, there are a few things you can do.
First, you can request a free copy of your report from the major credit reporting agencies. It will allow you to see what information is being reported about you. Second, you can dispute any errors that you find on your report. Finally, you can take steps to improve your credit history by making timely payments and maintaining a good credit score.
Criminal Records
One of the most common types of background checks is a criminal record check. This check will show any past convictions or arrests that you have. Employers will not use this information to make hiring decisions in most cases. However, there are some positions where a criminal record may be considered disqualifying. For example, jobs that involve working with children or vulnerable adults may require a clean criminal record.
If you have a record, you can do a few things to protect yourself from discrimination. First, you can request a copy of your criminal history and review it for accuracy. Second, you can limit the amount of personal information that is publicly available online. Finally, you can participate in programs such as expungement or sealing, which can make your criminal record less visible.
You can do a few things to protect yourself from discrimination if you have a criminal record. First, you can request a copy of your criminal history and review it for accuracy. Second, you can limit the amount of personal information that is publicly available online.
Finally, you can participate in programs such as expungement or sealing, which can make your criminal record less visible. These programs may not be available in all states, but they can help you get a job even if you have a criminal record.
In conclusion, background checks are a common practice used by employers to screen applicants. The information included in a background check will vary depending on the type of check conducted. However, most background checks will include your criminal record, credit history, and social media activity.
