What is SafetyNet Criminal Jurisdiction?
The SafetyNet product is DISA's NatCrim product. It generates information from hundreds of different data sources to provide an applicant's address history, name variations, and aliases. The information comes from three general categories: credit bureau header data, commercially available sources like utilities and phone companies, and public sources such as property records, licenses, etc. This information is utilized by DISA as a pointer file to ensure the necessary jurisdictions and aliases are searched for records pertaining to an applicant. This information is utilized internally and our clients do not view the data returned per FCRA regulations.
If states overturn previous marijuana convictions, how does it impact background checks?
With the legalization of marijuana across many states, cities such as San Francisco have implemented conviction expunging policies (Proposition 64) which remove misdemeanors and non-violent charges related to marijuana. Policies like these aim to get previous convictions reduced or reclassified to lesser offenses, with some convictions being dismissed altogether. This means that charges that are expunged will not appear on background checks. Employers need to implement a comprehensive background check process that will navigate individual state and city regulations. When employers use cheaper instant background checks, information can be incorrect or outdated, which could lead to potential lawsuits or liability in the workplace.
In addition, employers should consider services, such as social security number validity, criminal history for federal, county, and state, employment verification, etc., to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Are credit reports included in a background check?
A credit report is sourced at one of the three major credit bureaus. A credit report can reveal if an applicant has lived at a particular address or addresses for a length of time and can be an indicator of how responsibly he/she has handled personal financial affairs. In some states, this product can only be used for certain positions, such as fiduciary or executive management positions, or for certain regulated employers. Note, no credit score is provided on the credit report for employment purposes. State and local laws restrict when a credit report can be obtained for employment purposes.
Why are background checks important?
It’s important that employers maintain standards when making hiring decisions to keep their workplace safer while ensuring the quality of employee matches their requirements. If an applicant has anything to hide, they will most likely not want to apply to a position that requires a background check. When implementing employment screening procedures, such as a background check, employers will most likely see an improvement in the quality of the applicants that apply.