Distinguishing Information Gathering From Identity Verification in Candidate Screening
One of the most important things that any organization can do is ensure that those who are working there have accurately presented themselves – i.e. they are who they say they are. This can be done through information gathering and identity verification. What is the difference between these terms?
Information Gathering
Information gathering consists of gathering identification documents and information related to an individual. Examples can include their full name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, driver’s license and number, identification card and number and passport document and number.
Identity Verification
Identify verification goes an important step further as it focuses on whether those documents and that information are authentic. One of the most important workplace issues is employing someone who stole another’s identity, and identify verification is intended to detect that.
For example, if you get a trace of a Social Security number run, that will solely determine if it is a valid number. It does not necessarily indicate that the person presenting it is its owner.
Note that identity verification can even validate the accuracy of fingerprints and facial recognition.
Many recommend asking potential and current employees to provide different aliases and addresses that they have used. Also consider that, while rare, it is possible for someone to request and receive a new Social Security number.
Importance of Verification
Impersonation of others is something that can cause tremendous risk for a business.
It is essential that you have people working for you who are who they say they are for numerous reasons, including related to legal requirements, safety in the workplace and company reputation, the latter of which could be harmed if who a misrepresenting person actually is becomes common knowledge.
Our Services
We at Private Eyes have completed millions of background check services over the past 22 years and would be glad to research the backgrounds of your company’s employees, both prospective and current.
Have questions? Speak to a Private Eyes expert for more information.