Employers using background screenings to prevent fraud, ID theft

Many job applicants are not willing to freely disclose any information pertaining to a criminal past, which could include instances of fraud. Because of this, organizations and businesses, such as short term lenders, are increasingly implementing background screenings as part of the employment process. Burke County, North Carolina, is currently deciding on whether or not to require criminal background checks for positions within its Parks and Recreation Commission, according to the Morganton News Herald. While these jobs are mostly for volunteers that would work with the department's youth organizations, officials are calling for a county-wide policy to be implemented. Any individual that has been convicted of a sex offense, drug charges and other felonies would be banned from becoming a volunteer. When it comes to conducting screenings, Crain's Cleveland Business suggests employers follow the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. If a conviction is minor or not related to the job responsibilities, managers are encouraged to take these aspects into consideration when making hiring decisions. Additionally, any information pertaining to an applicant's or employee's criminal background should be kept confidential and not shared with anyone other than the individual, says the website.