Can speed kill? Or, more accurately, can a background check be delivered too fast? Please note, speedy or instantaneous background checks are often fast because they rely on pre-indexed, automated databases rather than searching live, local court records.
While they can be accurate, their reliability varies significantly, often providing outdated, incomplete or inaccurate information. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we believe quality is better than quantum speed. Now, we’re not saying our background checks are slow. They’re not. But we deliver quality services because we are FCRA-compliant, skillfully mixing automated speed with verified data. Instantaneous services will miss serious convictions and could even misidentify individuals.
Factors for Accuracy:
- Database vs. Real-Time Records: “Instant” checks often use aggregate databases, which may not update in real-time, leading to missed, recent or outdated records. GroupOne’s reliable checks utilize direct links to courthouse records.
- Missing Data: Low-cost, instant or free services frequently lack comprehensive, nationwide coverage. They may skip essential steps like county-level searches or checking for aliases.
- Verification Shortfalls: Quick checks often bypass manual, human verification of records, leading to false positives (matching the wrong person).
- FCRA Compliance: Background checks used for employment or renting must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Non-FCRA compliant “instant” services are often less thorough.
Why Speedy Checks are Less Accurate:
- They rely on databases that don’t cover all jurisdictions.
- They fail to check for aliases (maiden names, middle names).
- They do not perform manual verification when a potential match is found.
Speed is Sometimes Good:
- They are provided by accredited firms such as GroupOne that use automated, up-to-date data with in-person verification.
- They are used to identify potential risks rather than providing a finalized GroupOne report.
In today’s market, truly instantaneous, fully comprehensive checks are rare. Most reliable, background checks at GroupOne will take 24-72 hours using automated tools for speed but still allow time for our team of detectives to verify crucial data.