Background checks have become an essential part of many personal and professional decisions, whether for hiring employees, screening tenants, or verifying the credentials of an individual. In the digital age, numerous online platforms offer background check services, and been verified is one of the most popular among them. However, questions often arise regarding the legality of using BeenVerified for background checks. This article explores the legal aspects of using BeenVerified, its compliance with regulations, and its appropriate and inappropriate uses.

What is BeenVerified?

BeenVerified is an online public records search service that allows users to access a variety of personal and professional data about individuals. This information is compiled from public records, social media, criminal databases, and other sources. The platform provides details such as contact information, criminal history, employment history, and more. It is marketed as an easy-to-use tool for individuals looking to find information about others.

Understanding the Legality of BeenVerified

Compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

One of the primary legal considerations when using BeenVerified for background checks is whether it complies with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The FCRA is a federal law that regulates how consumer information can be used, particularly when it comes to employment, housing, and credit decisions.

BeenVerified explicitly states that it is not a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) and that its reports are not FCRA-compliant. This means that users cannot legally use BeenVerified for:

Employment screening

Tenant screening

Credit checks

Insurance underwriting

Any other purpose that requires FCRA compliance

If a company or individual uses BeenVerified for any of the above purposes, they could face legal consequences, including lawsuits and fines for violating FCRA regulations.

Public Records and Legal Accessibility

BeenVerified gathers its data from publicly available sources, which means that the information it provides is legally accessible to anyone. However, just because the information is publicly available does not mean it can be used for any purpose. Users must be aware of restrictions on how they utilize this data, especially in contexts requiring FCRA compliance.

Appropriate Uses of BeenVerified

Despite the FCRA limitations, BeenVerified can still be legally used for several purposes, including:

1. Personal Background Checks

Individuals can use BeenVerified to look up their own records to ensure accuracy or to see what information is publicly available about them. This can help individuals correct misinformation or be aware of their online presence.

2. Verifying Online Connections

With the rise of online dating and social media interactions, BeenVerified is often used to verify the identity and history of potential romantic partners, business associates, or new acquaintances.

3. Finding Lost Contacts

Many people use BeenVerified to reconnect with old friends, family members, or former colleagues by searching for updated contact information.

4. Checking Public Criminal Records

Although it cannot be used for employment or tenant screening, individuals can use BeenVerified to look up criminal records of people they interact with, such as neighbors, babysitters, or acquaintances, for personal safety reasons.

5. Researching Property and Business Information

BeenVerified provides access to property records and business affiliations, which can be useful for individuals researching neighborhoods or potential investments.

Risks and Limitations of Using BeenVerified

1. Accuracy of Information

Since BeenVerified compiles information from multiple sources, there is a possibility that some of the data may be outdated or incorrect. Users should verify important information from official sources before making decisions based on BeenVerified reports.

2. Privacy Concerns

Many individuals are concerned about their personal information being easily accessible through services like BeenVerified. While the platform only provides publicly available data, some users may feel uncomfortable knowing that their personal history can be searched online.

3. Legal Consequences of Improper Use

If someone uses BeenVerified for an illegal purpose, such as employment screening, they could face legal action for violating FCRA regulations. Employers and landlords should only use FCRA-compliant background check services to avoid legal risks.

How to Conduct a Legal Background Check

For those who need to conduct a background check for employment, housing, or financial purposes, it is essential to use an FCRA-compliant background check service. Some legally approved background check providers include:

HireRight

GoodHire

Checkr

Sterling

First Advantage

These services ensure that all background checks comply with legal requirements and provide accurate, up-to-date information that can be used for employment and rental screening.

How to Use BeenVerified Safely and Legally

To ensure that you are using BeenVerified within legal boundaries, follow these best practices:

  • Only use it for personal and informational purposes.
  • Do not use it for employment, tenant screening, or credit checks.
  • Verify important information from official sources.
  • Respect privacy and avoid misusing personal data.

Conclusion

BeenVerified is a legally operating public records search service that allows individuals to access information from publicly available sources. However, it is not an FCRA-compliant service, meaning it cannot be legally used for employment screening, tenant screening, or other purposes requiring FCRA compliance. When used correctly, been verified can be a valuable tool for personal research, reconnecting with lost contacts, and verifying online acquaintances. However, users must be mindful of its limitations and legal restrictions to avoid potential legal consequences.

If you need a background check for employment, housing, or financial purposes, always use an FCRA-compliant service to ensure compliance with federal laws and to receive accurate, legally permissible information.