The Importance of Background Checks in Today's Society
In today's world, where identities are easily stolen and crime rates are touching new highs, background checks hold great significance. Background checks are becoming increasingly popular in the corporate world, government agencies, and other organizations. Background checks are essential not only for mitigating the risks posed by criminals and potential fraudsters but also for ensuring public safety. While many people are aware of the importance of background checks, not everyone understands how they work and how they can help prevent fraud and protect people.
What Are Background Checks?
Background checks refer to the process of researching various records to learn more about a person's history, including their criminal record, employment history, credit history, and other relevant information. These checks usually include criminal record checks, reference checks, and financial background checks. Companies, government agencies, and other organizations use background checks to determine whether an individual is suitable for specific jobs, licenses, and other important positions.
Why Are They Important?
Background checks are essential to protect organizations and individuals from potential fraud and security risks. In today's technologically driven world, it is easier than ever for someone to fabricate a resume or create a false identity. Background checks can uncover fraudulent claims and help companies make informed hiring decisions by ensuring that individuals with a record of criminal activity, financial instability, or other problematic backgrounds do not have access to sensitive information or positions of trust.
For companies, employee theft and fraud are major concerns. When employees have access to sensitive information, financial transactions, or other crucial aspects of the company (such as customer data), the potential for fraud and theft increases. However, with background checks, companies can lower the risks they face. Background checks can help companies identify individuals who may pose a risk before they are hired.
In addition to protecting organizations from fraud and security threats, background checks are also essential to ensure public safety. Organizations that regularly use background checks include daycare centers, schools, and healthcare organizations. These organizations seek to ensure that people who are working with vulnerable populations have no criminal history of child abuse, domestic violence, or sexual assault. Background checks can help these organizations maintain their reputation and reduce the risk of costly lawsuits.
Real-Life Examples of the Importance of Background Checks
The importance of background checks can be seen in many real-life examples. In 2018, the Maryland medical board faced fierce criticism for taking years to revoke the medical license of a pediatrician who had a long history of misconduct and sexual abuse. It was revealed that the doctor had a record of child abuse dating back to the 1990s, but he was able to continue working after moving to Maryland, even though he had been forced to surrender his license in another state.
Another example is the case of U.S. Air Force veteran Devin Patrick Kelley, who killed 26 people and injured 20 others in a shooting at a church in Texas in 2017. Kelley had a history of domestic violence, and his criminal record included charges of animal cruelty and threatening people. However, due to gaps in the background check system, he was able to purchase firearms legally.
These examples highlight the significance of background checks, not only in safeguarding the interests of organizations and individuals but also in ensuring public safety. The scandals surrounding such incidents can harm the reputation of organizations and agencies that failed to uncover the information during their screening and background check processes.
Conclusion
Background checks are essential to today's society, and their importance cannot be overstated. They are crucial in mitigating fraud risks and protecting public safety. The examples of Maryland medical board and the Texas shooting illustrate how a lack of proper background checks can result in significant harm to innocent individuals and organizations. Companies, government agencies, and other organizations should understand the value of background checks and invest in screening processes that are as thorough and accurate as possible. When it comes to background checks, prevention is always better than the cure.
