Background checks are often requested by employers
on job candidates for employment screening, especially on candidates seeking a
position that requires high security or a position of trust, such as in a
school, hospital, financial institution, airport, and government. These checks
are traditionally administered by a government agency for a nominal fee, but
can also be administered by private companies.
Background checks can be expensive depending on the
information requested. Results of a background check typically include past
employment verification, credit history, and criminal history.
These checks are often used by employers as a means
of objectively evaluating a job candidate's qualifications, character, fitness,
and to identify potential hiring risks for safety and security reasons.
Background checks are also used to thoroughly investigate potential government
employees in order to be given a security clearance. However, these checks may
sometimes be used for illegal purposes, such as unlawful discrimination (or
employment discrimination), identity theft, and violation of privacy.