People Search by Social Security Number: Finding a Person through Their Social Security Number

The Importance of Verifying Employee Backgrounds

In today's competitive job market, the integrity of employee credentials is more crucial than ever. A survey by HireRight in 2020 revealed that 85% of employers caught applicants fibbing on their resumes. This underscores the necessity for thorough background checks. Utilizing a person's SSN can unlock access to a wealth of personal history, including criminal records, employment history, and driving records, which are essential for making informed hiring decisions.

How SSN Searches Work

An SSN is a unique identifier assigned to U.S. citizens and authorized residents. This number is tied to an individual's identity, making it a reliable source for accurate background information. When employers enter an applicant's SSN into a verified people search service, they can access various public and private records that provide a comprehensive view of the individual's past behavior and credentials.

Benefits of SSN Background Checks

• Accuracy and Reliability: Since each SSN is unique, the search results are highly accurate.
• Comprehensive Information: Employers can access criminal records, past employment verification, and driving records.
• Risk Mitigation: Helps prevent hiring individuals with falsified information or problematic histories.

A Real-World Application

Consider a scenario where a transportation company needs to hire new drivers. By using SSN searches, the company can access potential hires' driving records, ensuring that only those with clean records are considered. This process not only verifies the information on the resumes but also enhances safety and service reliability.

Legal Considerations

It's crucial for employers to understand the legal framework surrounding the use of SSNs for background checks. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how employers can use SSN searches and mandates obtaining consent from individuals before conducting these checks. Non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions.

Best Practices for Employers

1. Obtain Written Consent: Always get explicit permission from the applicant before conducting an SSN search.
2. Use Certified Services: Employ services that comply with FCRA standards to ensure the legality and accuracy of the information.
3. Respect Privacy: Handle all information with confidentiality to respect the privacy of applicants.

Conclusion

Using an SSN to conduct background checks is an effective way to ensure the reliability of potential employees. This method provides a detailed and accurate overview of an applicant's history, crucial for making informed hiring decisions. However, it is essential for employers to adhere to legal standards and respect privacy throughout the process.

For further reading on the legalities of using SSNs for background checks, visit the Federal Trade Commission's page on the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

For statistics on resume falsifications, check out HireRight's 2020 Benchmark Report.