A fingerprint background check can reveal a lot about you. If you have been involved in criminal activities in your past life, a fingerprint background check will reveal that information about you. Similarly, if your background check comes back clean, it will provide you with credibility in the eyes of your employer.
A fingerprint background check can be a requirement by many employers. It can provide your employer with an in-depth view of your past. Names and dates of birth can be changed, but you cannot change your fingerprints, which is why a fingerprint background check can be crucial for certain positions.
1. How it Works
The process of a fingerprint background check begins with a collection of your fingerprints. These fingerprints can be collected with the help of ink or through digital methods. These fingerprints are then submitted to the database for screening.
If you are applying for a job that requires you to work with the elderly or children, then your fingerprint background check might require an in-depth federal and state-wise check. This can reveal any criminal activities that you might have been involved in.
The results of your fingerprint screening are also verified to make sure that nothing was missed and there are no anomalies.
2. Why it is Needed
A fingerprint background check is needed if you are applying for a job with a sensitive designation. When it comes to your criminal history, just your word might not be enough. You will be required to show proof that you do not have a criminal record.
A fingerprint background check can enable you to do just that. It can show your criminal history or lack thereof. Similarly, it can show any misdemeanors or felonies you might be involved in. If your name has been added to the registry of known sex offenders, a fingerprint background check will disclose it.
3. When You Might Need It
The need for a fingerprint background check arises when you apply for a job that requires you to work in a sensitive position or with individuals who are vulnerable. For example, if you are applying for a job in healthcare, you will be required to do a background check.
Similarly, if you are applying for a job in the field of education where you will have interactions with children, you will be required to present a fingerprint background check. If you apply for a government job, you will also need to have a fingerprint background check.
4. Potential Issues You Might Face
Usually, it is highly unlikely for you to face any issues during a fingerprint background check, but the possibility of getting a false positive is never zero. This can happen for several reasons. For example, if your fingerprint is not clear, you can get matched with someone else.
Similarly, there can be issues with the database, which can result in you getting a false positive. Your records can be incomplete, or the fingerprints taken can get swapped due to human error, which can cause problems for you.