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# How a Background Check Actually Works

By Dan Dorney, InSecret

"Background check" gets used loosely, covering everything from a quick online search to a proper investigation. Here's what a thorough, lawful background check actually involves when we carry one out.

## It starts with a clear brief

Every check begins with understanding exactly what you need to know, and why. A background check for a new partner looks different to one for a prospective business associate or a tenant, so the scope is agreed with you before anything begins.

## Confirming identity

The first step is usually establishing that someone genuinely is who they claim to be, using lawful public record sources. This alone resolves a surprising number of concerns, particularly with online dating and new business relationships.

## Checking public records

This can include company directorships, County Court Judgments, bankruptcy records, and other publicly available records that give a fuller picture of someone's history, all accessed through legitimate, lawful channels.

## Employment and education verification

For pre-employment or business due diligence checks, we verify that claimed qualifications, job titles, and employment dates actually check out, rather than taking a CV at face value.

## Online presence review

A careful, factual review of someone's public online footprint can surface inconsistencies or information relevant to your concern, without crossing into anything invasive or unlawful.

## Putting it all together

The final step is pulling everything into a clear, factual report, without speculation or exaggeration. You get the facts we've found, presented plainly, so you can make your own informed decision.

## What we won't do

We don't access private accounts, intercept communications, or use any method that isn't lawful, regardless of how useful it might seem. If a piece of information can't be obtained lawfully, it doesn't go in the report.

Wondering whether a background check could help with your situation? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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