When employment decisions are on the line, it is important to verify information. At Randisi & Associates, we know the importance of accurate information during background checks and other employment screenings. Recent incidents have brought to light the importance of verifying information in all screening situations.
The FTC recently reported that MyLife.com, a web site purporting to offer thorough background checks, misled customers to think that the reports could contain criminal records and other records. Unfortunately the reports provided by MyLife.com were purportedly inaccurate. Their product was deemed to be deceptive and misleading, because searching a name on the site could indicate that the report “might contain” arrest, criminal or sex offender records when in reality the records were not present.
This case shines a light on the importance of verifying information viewed on the internet. Criminal convictions and arrests should always be confirmed at the local jurisdictional level. There can be incorrect information posted online about individuals and companies. We recently blogged about the importance of verifying information and posts on social media to avoid making the wrong hiring decision in response. If you rely on erroneous information that implies the individual has an arrest record or think that one social media profile belongs to the applicant but instead it belongs to someone with the same name, you could be putting yourself in a bad situation.
When using the internet for your employment screening, how do you know what is real? How do you know that the name belongs to the exact person applying for your job? In this blog, we speak more about how critical it is to work with an experienced consumer reporting agencies. If you don’t understand how to determine the accuracy of information or the best way to screen applicants, we are here to help. We can help you to get accurate information.
James P. Randisi, President of Randisi & Associates, Inc., has since 1999 been helping employers protect their clients, workforce and reputation through implementation of employment screening and drug testing programs. This post does not constitute legal advice. Randisi & Associates, Inc. is not a law firm. Always contact competent employment legal counsel. Mr. Randisi can be contacted by phone at 410.494.0232 or Email: info@randisiandassociates.com or the website at randisiandassociates.com
