FEDERAL AGENCY TARGETS ABUSES IN BACKGROUND SCREENING

    By Nancy C. DeMis, Esquire     

    Schoenfeld, Surkin, Chupein & DeMis, PC ©2012

Employers are naturally interested in finding out about the background of prospective hires.  Some turn to businesses that offer background screening for a fee.  But there are legal requirements to assure the accuracy of these reports, and to allow a challenge when they appear wrong.  Even companies that specialize in background checks can make mistakes that deprive employers of accurate information, and can deprive employees of a job.  On August 8, 2012, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a press release announcing the imposition of a $2.6 million penalty on RightHire Solutions, Inc., a background screening company.   

The FTC offers resources for employers and consumers who want to know more about the background check process, and their rights and obligations at www.ftc.gov.  

If you have questions or concerns about the background check process, please contact the employment lawyers at Schoenfeld, Surkin, Chupein & DeMis, PC.