Examples of what is included in a background check
A background check can include several different elements depending on the role, industry, level of responsibility, access, and risk. Typically, identity, employment history and criminal records are checked, but other checks may also be included.
Common checks in a background check:
- Identity verification
Confirms that the candidate is who they claim to be by verifying valid identification documents. - Driving licence
Checked for roles that involve driving, to ensure validity and appropriate entitlement. - Right to work
Confirms that the candidate has the legal right to work in the country. - Credit checks
May be carried out for roles with financial responsibility to identify potential risks. - Criminal record checks
Used to determine whether the candidate has any criminal convictions, where relevant. - Education and qualifications
Verifies that the candidate has completed the stated education, for example by checking certificates or contacting institutions. - Employment history checks
Verification of previous employment, for example by contacting former employers. - PEP, sanctions and adverse media checks
Primarily used in regulated industries to identify risks related to political exposure, sanctions or negative media coverage.
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What shows up in a background check?
A background check shows the information that has been verified about a candidate, based on the checks that have been carried out. This may include details such as identity, education and previous employment.
Typically, the following information may be included:
- Confirmed identity
- Verified education and qualifications
- Previous employment and work history
- Credit information (where relevant)
- Criminal record information (where applicable)
- Results from PEP, sanctions and adverse media checks
The information included will always depend on the type of background check being conducted and what is relevant for the specific role.
Employers must also inform the candidate about which checks are being carried out, in accordance with GDPR.
What does a background check involve?
A background check involves verifying information about a candidate to ensure that details such as identity, education and employment history are accurate.
It is used as part of the recruitment process to reduce risk and support more informed hiring decisions.
Why are background checks carried out?
Background checks are used to reduce risk in recruitment and ensure the right candidate is hired. By verifying a candidate’s information, organisations can avoid mis-hires and protect their business.
They also help confirm that the candidate has the experience and qualifications they claim, while reducing the risk of issues such as fraud or other misconduct, particularly in roles involving responsibility or access to sensitive information.
What can employers check in a background check?
Background checks must always be carried out with respect for the candidate’s privacy and in accordance with applicable legislation. This also determines what can be included in a background check.
The checks that are permitted depend on when they are carried out and how relevant they are to the specific role.
Before employment
During the recruitment process, it is common to carry out background checks to verify a candidate’s information. This may include identity, education and previous employment. The checks should be relevant to the role and carried out with the candidate’s knowledge.
During employment
Background checks carried out during an ongoing employment are more limited and require clear justification. They are primarily used in roles with specific requirements related to security, responsibility or access to sensitive information, and must always be proportionate to the purpose.
How does GDPR affect what is included in a background check?
GDPR influences what can be included in a background check, as these checks involve the processing of personal data. This means that all elements of a background check must be relevant to the role and have a clear purpose.
It also sets requirements for how information is collected and handled, and ensures that the candidate’s privacy is respected throughout the process.
Can international checks be included in a background check?
Yes, in cases where a candidate has lived, studied or worked abroad, international checks can be an important part of the recruitment process.
This can make the background check more complex, as:
- Information may need to be verified across multiple countries
- Access to records and data varies between countries
- Processes and requirements differ depending on the country
- Local expertise is often needed to carry out checks correctly
Want a deeper understanding of how background checks work in an international context? Download our white paper.
How a background check works
With DISA, background checks can be carried out efficiently, in a structured way, and with full control over the process. Our platform makes it easy to order checks, tailor the scope, and follow the entire process from start to final report.
You choose which information to verify and invite the candidate directly through the system. DISA then manages the communication and carries out the checks, allowing you to focus on making the right decisions.
The process at a glance:
- Order a background check through the DISA platform
- Select a screening profile based on the role and requirements
- The candidate is invited and submits their information
- DISA carries out the checks and verifies the details
- You receive a clear report to support your decision-making
Discover how DISA works in practice
Would you like to see how you can manage background checks in the DISA platform? Book a demo and we will show you how the process works in practice – from initial request to final report.
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