Background Checks and Investigations

Background checks and investigations are common methods used to gather detailed information about an individual. While some data can be found through a basic internet search, these methods delve deeper, offering insights especially relevant in employment and law enforcement contexts.

Background Checks

Background checks are typically conducted when considering candidates for employment. They may include details such as arrest records, convictions, traffic violations, employment and financial history, education, medical records, and social media activity.

Before conducting a background check, employers must inform the candidate and obtain their consent. For more in-depth investigative reports, written authorization is required. These reports may include information about a person’s character, lifestyle, and general reputation.

Importantly, protected characteristics such as race, gender, religion, disability, or genetic information are not considered in the evaluation. Only the facts revealed through the background check may influence employment decisions.

If adverse information is found, the individual must be given a copy of the report and an opportunity to explain or dispute it. Proper disposal of background check documents is crucial to maintaining confidentiality.

Investigations

Investigations are conducted regularly across businesses, law enforcement, and security organizations, each with the shared goal of uncovering the truth.

Methods Used in Law Enforcement

- FLOCK Cameras: These solar-powered cameras capture still images of passing vehicles and license plates. Officers can search by vehicle description and retrieve relevant data, including plate numbers and ownership details.

- Facial Recognition: Although facial recognition technology dates back to the 1960s, it became more viable for law enforcement around 2016. Agencies use driver’s license photos and other images to identify suspects. Sources include surveillance footage, body-worn cameras, and public records. Some states—including New Hampshire, California, Vermont, Maine, and Oregon—have limited or banned the use of facial recognition as of 2024.

- Surveillance Cameras: Widely used across residential and commercial properties, surveillance footage often plays a critical role in solving crimes. Law enforcement agencies frequently request this footage as supporting evidence.

- National Crime Information Center (NCIC): Maintained by the FBI, the NCIC database contains information on wanted individuals, missing persons, and stolen property. It's used exclusively by law enforcement and accessed through secure credentials, providing fast, detailed information on individuals.

Conclusion

Background checks are valuable tools in hiring and promotion decisions, while investigative techniques are essential for law enforcement and organizational security. Although public access to tools like FLOCK and NCIC is restricted, commercial background checks remain widely accessible. Even with limited online activity, personal data—such as that used to open bank or phone accounts—can still be traced through authorized systems.