Are fingerprint-based FBI background checks better than traditional background checks? The question has surfaced multiple times involving civil suits against Uber and the U.S. Census Bureau.
There are several misconceptions about FBI databases and the services offered by employment screening companies such as GroupOne, which check records at national, state and county sources.
FBI Fingerprint Checks
The FBI maintains several databases of information associated with people’s fingerprints. Fingerprint background checks involve searches against state and federal Department of Justice (DOJ) records. Fingerprints can be taken and submitted electronically.
The database information is compiled from criminal records submitted to the FBI from state agencies and FBI investigations. Fingerprints submitted for background checks are run against the records in the database. If nothing is found, a statement is sent to the organization that requested it.
How Background Checks Work
Source-based criminal records checks are based on a person’s name and social security number. Using that information, along with date of birth and past addresses, a background check company such as GroupOne can search multiple data sources, including state and county criminal records, and sex offender lists.
The Problem with Fingerprint Background Checks
Some positions, such as those that require government clearance or working with children or the elderly, may require fingerprint checks.
But there are problems with accuracy and completeness. Despite the FBI database’s positive reputation, recent studies show that as much as 50% of the records in the FBI database are missing disposition information. That means a background check could return arrests for which a person was cleared, or charges that were reduced.
What people should understand is that the FBI database isn’t a complete repository. The FBI relies on states to submit their records, which oftentimes lack disposition data.
In addition, not every criminal record is associated with a fingerprint, and the FBI only accepts records tied to fingerprints. Simply put, the best source for complete records that include final dispositions is the county courthouse, where the information is recorded.
Fingerprint-based background checks are also not governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the federal law that protects how the information of individuals is acquired, used and maintained to ensure privacy and avoid discrimination. All employment screening conducted through third party companies such as GroupOne must comply with this law.
The FCRA offers job seekers several protections. It bars background check companies from reporting arrest records that are older than seven years, though actual convictions can be reported no matter how long ago they took place.
If an employer decides not to hire a candidate based on something uncovered in a background check, the FCRA requires that the candidate be notified and given an opportunity to review the information and dispute any inaccuracies.
Fingerprint Checks Not Foolproof
As a company, GroupOne does not provide fingerprint checks due to the exposure to incomplete arrest records. What we do is follow industry best practices with a team of veterans who perform expert investigations to ensure the maximum amount of coverage of a person’s history.
At GroupOne, we believe our most thorough employment screening gives employers valuable insight into the people they’re considering for a position. We also believe that FCRA compliance is critical to protect both employers and job candidates.