When it comes to hiring new employees or working with individuals in sensitive positions, it's important to take extra precautions to ensure their backgrounds are thoroughly checked. Background checks are an essential part of today's society, helping prevent fraud and protect public safety by providing employers with a more complete picture of who they are hiring. In this article, we'll take a closer look at why background checks are so important and how they can help protect both individuals and organizations alike.
Why are background checks important in today's society?
Background checks are more important now than ever before due to the increase in fraudulent activity in the workplace. In fact, a recent study found that as many as 70% of employers have reported being victims of fraud at some point in time. This makes it vital for organizations to conduct thorough background checks on prospective employees to prevent fraud and protect themselves from potential liability.
Another reason background checks are so important is the potential threat to the safety of individuals and communities. When working with vulnerable populations, such as children or elderly individuals, it's crucial to ensure that individuals do not have a history of violence, sexual abuse, or other criminal activities that could put these populations at risk. By conducting background checks, employers can potentially prevent dangerous individuals from being hired and reduce risks to public safety.
How do background checks help prevent fraud?
Background checks can help prevent fraud by revealing any criminal history or past fraudulent activities of job candidates. Employers can use this information to make more informed hiring decisions and avoid bringing on individuals with a history of fraudulent or criminal behavior. Background checks may also include credit reports, which can reveal any recent financial troubles or patterns of irresponsible behavior that could lead to fraud or embezzlement.
Furthermore, conducting background checks can help reduce the likelihood of workplace theft or other fraudulent activities. By thoroughly vetting potential employees, employers can identify any red flags, such as a pattern of theft or a history of falsifying information, which could indicate a higher risk for fraudulent behavior. This can help organizations maintain a safer and more secure workplace environment.
How do background checks protect public safety?
Background checks can protect public safety by helping employers identify individuals who may pose a risk to vulnerable populations or the community at large. For example, background checks may reveal past domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, or other criminal activities that could make an individual a threat to children or vulnerable adults. By thoroughly vetting prospective employees, organizations can avoid accidentally hiring individuals who could put these populations at risk.
Background checks can also help protect the public by screening individuals who work in sensitive positions, such as law enforcement officers or healthcare professionals. These individuals have a higher level of responsibility and trust, and it's important to know that they are up to the task. A thorough background check can reveal any past criminal behavior or ethical violations that could disqualify them from working in these positions.
Real-life examples
The importance of conducting thorough background checks has been illustrated in numerous real-life examples. For instance, in 2012, a bus driver in Tampa was charged with assaulting a child with special needs. It was later revealed that he had a criminal past that included charges for battery, drug possession, and grand theft. Had a thorough background check been conducted, this individual may never have been hired as a bus driver, potentially preventing this tragic incident from occurring.
In another example, a nurse in Houston was accused of assaulting a patient while on the job. The nurse had previously been charged with assault and battery, but the charges were dismissed due to mental incompetency. A thorough background check could have revealed this information and allowed the healthcare facility to make an informed decision about the nurse's fitness to work with patients.
Conclusion
Background checks are vital in today's society for preventing fraud and protecting public safety. By thoroughly vetting prospective employees, organizations can identify any red flags that could indicate a higher risk of fraudulent or criminal behavior. Background checks can also help protect vulnerable populations and sensitive positions from individuals who may pose a threat to public safety. With the prevalence of fraud and other criminal activities in the workplace, it's more important than ever for organizations to conduct thorough background checks to protect themselves and others from potential harm.
