A common background screening question is, are fingerprint background checks better than name-based checks?
While they certainly have their time and place, there is a reason many shy away from fingerprint background checks if they have the option.
Some organizations, particularly those in federal, state, and local governments, are required to conduct fingerprint background checks on new hires. However, fingerprint background checks have some considerable shortcomings that often make them less effective compared to name-based screening.
Fingerprint Check vs. Name-Based Background Check
Fingerprint background checks typically involve comparing an individual’s fingerprints against federal fingerprint databases. For this reason, such a background check is often referred to as an “FBI check.” The problem is that the 10th Amendment makes it difficult for the federal government to ensure the integrity of its data. While the FBI database is (almost entirely) reliant on the data of state and local jurisdictions, states are under no obligation to report to the federal government. They reserve the constitutional right to keep much of that information to themselves. Thus, the FBI can’t mandate the accuracy of its criminal records databases. However, many states cooperate and are reasonably diligent in reporting their records.
On the other hand, name-based background checks processed by private screening companies typically employ large networks of court researchers. Whether by online or manual means, these court researchers go directly to the courts and retrieve information, ensuring its accuracy. Fingerprint background checks don’t observe these same direct-to-source processes.
Moreover, information including name, date of birth, social security number, and address is more than enough to verify records. These personal identifiers, when used together, eliminate the possibility of duplicates, except in the case of error or fraud—a thing that would be good to identify anyway. The argument could be made that using personal identifiers adds a layer of protection against identity theft.
The federal fingerprint database was initially created to screen firearm purchasers but is now also used to screen law enforcement officers, government workers, and others. It was made out of legislative necessity, and it aimed to be adequate for its purpose, not exhaustive.
For private companies that have a choice, name-based background checks provided by a PBSA-accredited background screening company are often a better option for minimizing hiring risks and reducing turnover. Name-based background checks can be specifically customized for a wide variety of needs, allowing for more comprehensive, accurate, compliant, and timely data than fingerprint checks can offer. That said, Peopletrail, along with many other screening companies, also offer fingerprint solutions.
Understanding Fingerprint Checks
There is no doubt that fingerprints are unique to each individual, making them a reliable way to eliminate uncertainty when identifying someone. For this reason, FBI background checks are often mandated by government agencies.
However, fingerprints have several shortcomings and limitations, making them less suited to employment background screening. Some of these include:
- Turnaround times can be longer than name-based methods.
- Fingerprinting facilitation can be difficult.
- Only 86 percent of states have records management systems that meet FBI requirements (as of 2020).
- Records are not typically verified with the courthouses.
- There are no formal drug testing or verification protocols.
- Initial results are provided to candidates and then shared with CRAs or employers.
Now, it’s important to mention that fingerprint screening solutions are becoming increasingly efficient. Fingerprint scanning methods are beginning to replace mail-in fingerprint cards, bringing turnaround times down from 6-8 weeks to just a couple of days in some cases. However, the challenges in data integrity still largely remain.
Advantages of Name-based Checks
While conducting name-based criminal background checks, professional screeners use personal identifiers to search for federal, local, and state records of arrests and convictions.
There are several benefits to carrying out name-based criminal background checks for employment purposes. A number of accredited screening providers can provide the following:
- Average turnaround times of 24 to 72 hours.
- Electronic data collection and authorization.
- Court-verified criminal record data.
- Nationwide drug testing.
- Employment, education, personal reference, and professional reference verifications.
- Integrations with ATS and HRIS management systems so all hiring processes can be handled in one place.
- Direct reporting to employers.
Name-based Criminal Background Checks are Accurate, Fast, and Comprehensive
Criminal history checks from accredited background screening companies allow for secure and informed hiring decisions. Name-based checks can offer more comprehensive background screening insights by including felony and misdemeanor convictions of any candidate, the corresponding dispositions, case numbers, case dates, sentences, and classifications, all verified at the court level.
Criminal history isn’t the only thing that can be retrieved. Employers can also uncover a candidate’s educational and employment history. Name-based verification checks are EEOC and FCRA-compliant.
Questions about what may or may not show up on a criminal background check? Check out this article.
Peopletrail Provides Both Fingerprint and Name-Based Solutions
It’s important to clarify that fingerprint background checks have their value. They continue to serve as the screening method for firearm purchasers and federal employees nationwide. However, if the desire is to utilize a customizable, in-depth, and accurate solution, name-based will almost always win out.
At Peopletrail, we offer both name-based screening solutions and fingerprint screening solutions.
Those of our clients who do require fingerprinting services commonly incorporate additional name-based searches or verifications into their solution.
The Bottom Line
When given the choice between fingerprint checks and name-based background verifications for employment purposes, most should opt for the latter. Name-based criminal background screenings are more flexible and customizable while providing reliable insights that can be easily missed by the FBI database. Fingerprinting, however, is still valuable in certain situations, particularly when screening regulations and protocols are imposed.
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