Why are Background Checks Important in Today's Society?
Background checks play an essential role in today's society to prevent fraud and protect public safety. Many industries such as healthcare, childcare, education, finance, and law enforcement require a thorough background check before hiring an employee. Background checks help uncover an individual's criminal record, credit history, and employment history, among other information necessary for a prospective employer to know. They help mitigate potential risks and liabilities, ensuring public safety and trust in the workplace.
Background Checks and Fraud Prevention
One of the most significant benefits of background checks is fraud prevention. Fraudulent activities, such as identity theft and financial scams, are on the rise in today's digital age. Background checks help identify potential fraudulent activities, such as fake identities and past criminal records. For example, individuals with a history of identity theft or financial fraud should not work in finance or banking industries. Background checks help detect such individuals, and their employment can be dismissed before harming customers or the company.
Background Checks and Public Safety
Background checks are also crucial in protecting public safety. Employers must ensure that their employees do not pose a threat to public safety. For example, individuals with a history of violence or drug use should not work in the healthcare or education industry, where they could potentially harm patients or students. Furthermore, backgrounds checks help protect the workforce that an employee will be joining, ensuring that everyone is safe under the same roof.
In the USA alone, the FBI processed annual background checks over 27 million in 2020. That shows the high number of background checks done yearly to ensure proper screening and protection.
Real-Life Examples
The importance of background checks in fraud prevention and public safety is best illustrated through real-life examples. In 2009, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implemented a mandatory background check requirement for individuals who work in sensitive airport areas. This background check requirement was implemented after a worker at Newark Liberty International Airport was caught stealing laptops. Similarly, the healthcare and education industries require background checks to ensure that individuals with a criminal record are not employed.
In another real-life example, the 2017 mass shooting incident in Sutherland Springs, Texas, prompted a review of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) database. The shooter had a history of domestic violence, which should have prevented him from purchasing a firearm. However, the NICS database did not contain the necessary information, and the shooter was able to purchase a firearm, resulting in 26 fatalities.
Thus, background checks not only prevent potential fraudulent activities but also protect public safety, and any loophole could lead to substantial harm.
Legal Requirements for Background Checks
Many industries have mandatory background check requirements as set forth by state and federal laws. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates credit reporting agencies' use of consumer reports, including background checks. The FCRA requires background check consent from the employee, not provide sensitive information to third-party enterprises, and ensure accuracy in the reports.
Some states may have additional regulations and require employers to obtain specific types of criminal history information or dismiss employees for certain convictions. For example, Hawaii prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals with marijuana convictions, while Illinois prohibits employers from considering arrest records that did not result in a conviction.
Taking a Storytelling Approach
The significance of background checks in society can be a bit dull, but people can relate to the challenges that come with it. Monetary issues, workplace bullying, or any unfavorable condition arising from failing to conduct a background check are all relatable experiences. Incorporating a storytelling approach engages readers and showcases the importance of background checks that can have a lasting impact.
Conversational Tone
Background checks can come off as cold and rigid, but using a conversational tone engages readers. Background checks do not need to be complicated; therefore, the tone of the message is essential. Using a conversational approach allows the message to come across in a relatable and comfortable manner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Background checks are essential in today's society to prevent fraud, protect public safety, and build trust in workspaces. They help employers make informed decisions about prospective employees, ensuring the safety of both their customers and employees. Background checks reduce the likelihood of potential dangers in any workplace and ensure that employers hire the most qualified and honest people for their businesses. By using a conversational tone, sharing real-life examples, and storytelling, we create relatable scenarios for readers to appreciate the importance of background checks and why they should always be a part of our society.
