|
Privacy Policy
Under no circumstances will the personal information collected and maintained in our databases ever be sold or provided to an outside entity for any purpose. The McDowell Agency, Inc. does not use our database of applicant information to compile mailing lists for sales or any other purpose. All data shall be collected, stored and used in compliance with applicable law, which may include the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, individual state background screening and privacy laws and other national laws.
Website Security
The McDowell Agency, Inc. uses multiple layers of security to ensure information is kept in strict confidence. From the point of entry, all data is encrypted upon submission to our web server.
The McDowell Agency, Inc. uses 128 bit SSL security, with a security certificate provided by VerisignTM. The McDowell Agency, Inc.'s web server is running a specialized Web-only version of Windows, is protected behind both hardware and software firewalls, and is locked in a secure, armed guard network operating center in the Twin Cities area.
Why is background screening necessary?
An applicant's past history is the best predictor of future performance. Background screening is your chance to validate information provided by your applicant. It can reveal discrepancies and information that was intentionally or inadvertently withheld; for example, a county of residence that contains a criminal record or poor employment reference. Simply knowing a screening program is in place can discourage applicants with criminal records or false qualifications, and encourage applicants to be more forthcoming about their past. Background screening also demonstrates due diligence on the part of the employer, and arms the employer with hard facts to make confident hiring decisions.
What does a background check include? Isn't it expensive?
See the "Services" portion of our website for a complete description of services offered. Your background screening package should be defined by the needs and requirements of the job and organization, and be applied consistently to all applicants. We work with each client on an individual basis to create a custom package that suits their unique needs and budget concerns. When considering the cost of recruiting and training new employees a background check is a very inexpensive way to protect your investment.
What is the turnaround time for a background check?
Our average turnaround time is 2-3 business days. Use of our online service expedites the background screening process.
What happens if an applicant disputes background screening results?
The applicant may be referred to The McDowell Agency, Inc. and we will provide them with the source of the information as well as who to contact to dispute that information.
How do I make requests and receive reports?
We recommend our Secure Client Log-in online service located at www.truebackgroundscreening.com, however we have other options if you prefer. Information can be transmitted via email, secure fax, the mail, or a combination of these; your program can be customized to what best suits your organization.
What is the process for entering requests and viewing requests online?
You may enter requests and view results for both employee and volunteer applicants online. You will simply need one account for each to differentiate between the two for billing and package component purposes. Please refer to our User's Guide for step-by-step, illustrated directions to assist you with this process.
Can I leave the computer idle in the middle of submitting a request?
No. When the system has been left idle for a period of time it closes out as a security measure and results in an "unauthorized user" message. If this happens you will need to re-submit that request.
Which forms are used for a pre-employment screening request?
Applicants for employment must complete the standard Pre-Employment Screening Questionnaire and Consumer Report. They must also be provided with a copy of the Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. We can create customized forms to better suit your organization's unique needs.
Which forms are used for a volunteer screening request?
Applicants for volunteer positions must complete the standard Volunteer Pre-Service Applicant Release Statement and Volunteer Pre-Service Questionnaire. We can also create customized forms to better suit your organization's unique needs.
Why are county criminal searches necessary when statewide databases are available?
Database searches can be useful, but only when used in conjunction with a record search done by a licensed researcher physically reviewing records at each county courthouse. We hold the position that selling database searches as a standalone service is dangerously inadequate; they are guaranteed to be incomplete and are often outdated. Statewide databases are only as complete and accurate as the information reported from local police departments, courts, and federal agencies, and often have more lenient requirements as to what level of crimes are required to be disclosed. We provide True Background Screening, which combines the database with a county criminal record search to create the most comprehensive criminal background check available.
How do I know which counties to search?
Typically counties to be searched are derived from the applicant's provision of all employment and residence locations within the last seven years. Additional locations can be discovered through a Social Security Number/Address Trace to supplement information provided by the candidate. This type of trace is based upon credit reporting agencies and many other resources.
When is a Motor Vehicle Records check necessary?
It is recommended you supplement your package with a Motor Vehicle Record search for all applicants whose job description requires driving on behalf of your organization.
When is a Credit Report necessary?
It is recommended you supplement your package with a Credit Report for all applicants whose job description requires the handling of money or any other financial responsibilities on behalf of your organization.
How do I read a Credit Report?
Please refer to the Resources area of our website where a sample report can be viewed with coordinating keys for understanding the format and abbreviations.
What if an applicant has a maiden name or other alias?
Our forms request the disclosure of all names used in the last seven years; these alternate names will be entered as AKAs and searched as well.
Can I request a background check on a minor?
Not typically. Records may be available if the subject was tried as an adult, but juvenile records are not available without a release form signed by the subject authorizing our agency to access juvenile records.
Are release forms necessary from the applicant?
Yes, a signed release form should be obtained from each applicant before initiating a background check. A copy of this release should be kept for your records and a copy of the Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) should be provided to each applicant undergoing background screening to ensure FCRA compliance.
How does the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) apply to background screening?
The FCRA is the federal governing act applicable to all background searches, not just credit reports. It defines permissible purposes, ways in which information is handled, what procedures and documents must be used, and course of adverse action. The purpose is to protect the rights and privacy of applicants; violations may result in legal ramifications. Additional information can be obtained at http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fcrajump.htm.
Is The McDowell Agency, Inc.'s TRUE Background Screening compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act?
Yes. The McDowell Agency, Inc.'s background checks are compliant with The Fair Credit Reporting Act and all applicable local, state and federal laws.
|
