How Much Does Instant Checkmate Cost?

Have you ever wondered “how much does Instant Checkmate cost?” If so, our guide to the subscription fees can help you make smarter decisions about using this popular background check service.

Instant Checkmate is one of the best background check services around. The company has been around since 2010, when it was founded in San Diego as a tool for adults to learn more about possible matches found on dating apps before they meet in person.

The company has since expanded to offer a wide range of people-search and background check services, with accurate information collected from various public records. Instant Checkmate claims that it has processed more than 1.4 billion searches since it was founded.

Read on to find out more about how much the background check service costs in this Instant Checkmate review.

How Much does Instant Checkmate Cost?

Instant Checkmate offers personal reports and phone reports that aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information on background check search subjects.

The person reports include a “basic people research” feature that costs $35.12 per month for a monthly subscription with unlimited searches. Customers also have the option to available of a 3-month plan for $28.09 per month or $84.27 total.

Standard membership provides a few benefits, including unlimited person and location reports and premium report monitoring.

The company’s phone reports service includes reverse phone lookup for $5.99 per month. Benefits include unlimited phone reports.

Instant Checkmate doesn’t offer a free background check. So if you would prefer not to pay a fee, you will have to perform your own due diligence in looking into a person’s criminal history or background. Alternately, you could try similar services that offer a free background check.

What Information Does Instant Checkmate’s Service Plans Include?

Person reports include the following information:

  • Birthdates
  • Phone Numbers
  • Current and previous addresses
  • Email lookup
  • Employment and education histories
  • Photos
  • Social Media Profiles
  • Businesses owned
  • Assets
  • Traffic and criminal records
  • Court Records

Phone reports include the following information:

  • Name and address
  • Address histories
  • Photos
  • Social media accounts
  • Possible associates

 

Instant Checkmate Membership Add-Ons

Members also have the option to avail of add-ons that add considerable value to the plans for modest fees. For example, they could get downloadable report files for a one-time fee of $3.99. This provides downloadable PDF reports that can be viewed at any time, shared with others, and printed out.

Instant Checkmate also offers dark web monitoring services for an additional $1.99 per month. This service helps protect sensitive information and safeguard against identity theft by detecting passwords, personal and financial credentials, and other data on the dark web.

Instant Checkmate members interested in availing of these add-on services are encouraged to contact the company’s customer care department from Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm PST.

More on Instant Checkmate Cost and Services

As mentioned previously, Instant Checkmate offers a one-month unlimited standard reports package for $35.12. Users also have the option to sign up for a three-month plan for $84.27, which works out to $28.09 per month.

Unlike other search services, Instant Checkmate doesn’t offer a single report or single search services. However, trial periods are offered from time to time for a low cost of only $1.

Instant Checkmate allows users to search for someone by name, city, or state. The company also offers reverse phone lookup, which is helpful for searchers that have only a phone number to go by.

It is important to note that Instant Checkmate collects data only from public records. Consequently, you won’t receive any information that isn’t available anywhere else.

Even so, premium reports are pretty thorough, drawing data from a vast array of sources. You can expect results to include vehicles, properties, assets, address histories, bankruptcies, and even marriages and relations.

Furthermore, Instant Checkmate provides information on sex offender registrations, firearms licenses, arrests, and traffic and criminal records.

Keep in mind that Instant Checkmate is not an FCRA-compliant service, which means that it isn’t considered a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. This means that background check searches conducted on the site cannot legally be used to field prospective employees or for tenant screening.

Instant Checkmate’s User Interface

Instant Checkmate has an attractive and slick-looking design to its site. The colors are subdued and attractive, and the impression one gets is of a professional and reliable service.

Unfortunately, Instant Checkmate’s user interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigation isn’t as straightforward as you might hope, despite the simplicity and elegance of the website’s design.

The first step of running a search seems easy enough. Users will first be required to type in any information they know about their search subject in the site’s search bar, which can be found right on the homepage.

This is where things begin to get more tedious and complicated. After typing in the initial search information, users will be presented with a series of annoying pop-ups that request more details about the search subject.

This is understandably a necessary part of the process, as it involves providing the gender of the search subject as well as known relatives. Even so, it does seem to add unnecessary steps to the search process and could have just as easily been done during the initial stage of the search.

This stage of refining the search is followed by a notice indicating that the results may include graphic content. The only way to proceed at this point is to check a box signifying your acknowledgment.

Worse still, various other notices pop up throughout the rest of the search before the results are presented. One can’t help but get the feeling that this long-drawn-out process is intended to convince users of the thoroughness of the search instead of actually improving the quality.

Altogether, we counted about five pop-ups before the results were revealed. There is also a distinctly hyped-up and sensationalistic tone to the warnings about possible graphic details, which we felt was completely unnecessary.

And there are still even more annoyances. Users are also required to provide their name and email address before they can proceed to the results. There is also a notice to the effect that searchers will have to agree to receive emails from the service. The reason for this isn’t really clear to us, as the results can be viewed online.

At this point, we were finally able to get the Instant Checkmate report. The data was generally accurate, although we’ve received reports about errors in some information, particularly concerning addresses.

Instant Checkmate provides details on criminal records. But these are accompanied by a “likelihood” score. This suggests that some results may not always be accurate, especially with regard to arrest records, criminal records, and mailing addresses.

The Instant Checkmate App

Instant Checkmate is available via a mobile app only for Android devices. Considering the huge popularity of iOS devices, this restriction is a bit of a mystery.

Customer Reviews of Instant Checkmate

Instant Checkmate reviews and customer feedback seem mostly positive, with a few negative reviews here and there. In the Instant Checkmate review on Google Play Store, most users gave the background check services high marks, resulting in a 4.3 out of 5-star rating.

Users of Instant Checkmate’s website like the service’s ease of use for personal research and generally accurate individual reports. Nevertheless, there are some complaints about the tedious search process and the many pop-ups. Some users have also reported issues with logging in and the insufficient depth of information on some searches.

Instant Checkmate’s Customer Support

Instant Checkmate’s customer support service is as good as you’d expect from a reputable people search website. Users can reach the company’s customer support team by phone and email from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday.

The customer support representative we talked to was very helpful and knowledgeable, walking us through the steps of navigating the site. They were also able to answer questions we had about the subscription plan and search processes in about ten minutes.

If you do run into problems signing up for a subscription plan or getting results, the site offers an online help center with informative tutorial videos. You will also find answers to some of the most common questions regarding the service.

Unfortunately, Instant Checkmate doesn’t offer live chat support via an official channel. But the phone and email support was sufficient for our needs.

Removing Information From Instant Checkmate

During the course of putting together this Instant Checkmate review, we found that some of our reviewer’s personal information was available via the service. Subsequently, we tried to find out how easy it was for a person to remove unwanted information such as a criminal record or phone number.

Surprisingly, the process proved to be remarkably easy. Unlike Instant Checkmate alternatives that conceal this option deep in the site or on the checkout page, Instant Checkmate provides the link to do so right on the homepage. After submitting an opt-out request, we found the information was gone in two days.

How Secure is Instant Checkmate?

Security on Instant Checkmate is pretty airtight, with the site secured by the reputable firm Norton Symantec. Payment data and personal information are protected with 256-bit encryption, providing some measure of security against prying eyes. The connection is further safeguarded by an SSL-encrypted connection.

Of course, all the information Instant Checkmate provides is readily available from public records. This means that there is relatively little concern about data privacy issues and the like. Even so, it’s always good to know that all activities on the site are protected to some degree.

Final Verdict: Instant Checkmate

Instant Checkmate is a hugely popular background check service for many good reasons. Searches are mostly fast and accurate, although the process is hindered somewhat by the many unnecessary pop-ups that get in the way.

But once the results are returned, the service begins to live up to its reputation. Users are presented with a huge range of data, much more than what other search services provide. And while there may be some errors in addresses and other details, the information the site provides via its background check service is generally pretty thorough and accurate.

The bottom line: Instant Checkmate is generally an excellent site that could use some streamlining in the way searches are performed. Overall, we recommend Instant Checkmate to those looking for a reliable and reasonably priced information search service.

FAQ

Is Instant Checkmate Free?

Unfortunately, Instant Checkmate doesn’t offer free background checks or a free trial period. There are trial offers on Instant Checkmate searches from time to time, which are available for the low price of only $1. The Instant Checkmate cost is substantially less than similar background check services.

Where Does Instant Checkmate Source Its Data From?

Instant Checkmate obtains its data from a wide range of sources, including federal, state, and county databases. Information may also be obtained from social media platforms.

What Payment Methods Does Instant Checkmate Accept?

Instant Checkmate accepts Visa and MasterCard credit cards. You could also send payments from your PayPal account.

Can Instant Checkmate’s Search Service be Used to Conduct Background Checks?

Instant Checkmate’s people search service can be used to conduct background checks. Users typically use it to run searches on potential dates, neighbors, acquaintances, family members, a long lost friend, and even themselves.

When is Using Instant Checkmate Inadvisable?

Instant Checkmate isn’t considered a consumer reporting agency as defined by the FCRA or Fair Credit Reporting Act. The site doesn’t provide consumer reports, so it isn’t the best tool for screening prospective tenants or hiring employees.

You also can’t use Instant Checkmate to determine eligibility for insurance, consumer credit, healthcare, and housing benefits. These applications generally require FCRA compliance.

How are Instant Checkmate’s Reports Delivered?

Instant Checkmate provides online reports on an easy-to-navigate page. Users also have the option to download a full report in PDF version by paying for an add-on service. This add-on service is one of the ways that the Instant Checkmate cost can exceed similar services.

Contact Erase Mugshots

In this day and age, it’s important to protect one’s records online from being abused or from falling into the wrong hands. This process can be challenging since it requires professional data removal from the deepest and darkest parts of the internet. If your personal details are on the web, careful monitoring for threats to your reputation is often required as well.

Learn more about how to remove negative content online by calling 866-601-6803 . If you need help protecting your privacy online, contact us now.

 

How Much Does Intelius Cost?

Our guide to the Intelius cost breakdown will help you determine if this is the right background check service for your needs. 

Reverse phone lookup or other background check services have risen in popularity. With its background check service, businesses like Intelius give you unlimited searches and other details under the fair credit reporting act and consumer reporting agency limitations.

If you’re curious to learn more about the price of Intelius, this article is for you. Background check services can range from a few dollars to a lot.

This is why unlimited searches are important. This Intelius review gives you an in-depth explanation of its reverse phone lookup, photo lookup, and other background check service features.

Let’s start by learning more about Intelius as a whole.

Intelius Review: What It Is and What It’s About

Intelius is an American company that provides people search, background check, and public record services. Founded in 2003, Intelius is one of the most comprehensive people search platforms in the world.

Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Intelius has collected data from more than 2 billion records to create the largest and most accurate searchable database of people-related information in the United States.

Intelius is an excellent resource for people interested in researching the past of themselves, their friends and family, and even their employers. It also provides helpful tools that can potentially help protect someone against potential identity theft by providing detailed and accurate background checks.

Using Intelius, you can find information on someone’s current address, phone number, and age. You can also look up detailed background checks on an individual, including criminal records and financial information. Intelius allows you to search via a person’s name, the city where they live, and even the type of information you want to find.

Intelius also claims to have access to over 850 million public records, including records, bankruptcy filings, addresses, phone numbers, and more. Intelius also provides helpful features like search alerts. For example, you can subscribe to Intelius’s search alert feature to be notified of when additional relevant search records have become available for a person you are researching.

The search alert feature comes in handy for employers conducting background checks on potential employees as well as for private individuals concerned about protecting their identity.

Intelius is an excellent tool for conducting detailed background checks and identity protection. With its huge database of records, Intelius can provide accurate information in a quick, organized, and secure manner.

Intelius Review: Prices for Each Service

Reverse phone lookup and other background check service features are among the few features that Intelius offers.

If you’re wondering why isn’t Intelius free, this is because it offers multiple searchers like a nationwide background check including age, date of birth, and other data from government records and phone directories. The Intelius cost covers background checking services and other data-centric search tools.

Intelius background check reviews involve looking past the regular search engine to compile accurate reports from multiple searches on the deep web.

There are negative Intelius reviews because there is no Intelius free trial for it to provide consumer reports. Intelius offers a wide range of data through its premium, and basic people search.

Learn more about the service’s pricing structure and how to get unlimited number results by searching for unknown phone numbers of potential contacts or even an online date.

Even by paying basic Intelius fees, you can get unlimited standard reports.

Is Intelius safe? Yes. The Intelius premier plus account settings let you get unlimited reports or a single search report to help you double-check records or screening employees with a more affordable 6 or 7-day trial without spending for the Intelius premier plus.

Here are the Intelius pricing options.

Reverse Phone Lookup

Costs $0.95, then $34.95 after your 6-day trial.

Your membership renews every 30 days unless you cancel them.

Member Benefits

  • Unlimited Phone Reports
  • Unlimited Person Reports
  • Unlimited Address Reports

Phone Reports May Include

  • Owner’s name
  • Photos
  • Owner’s address
  • Social Media Profiles
  • Address History
  • Related Persons
  • And More

People Search

Costs $24.86 per month or $21.13 for two months.

Member Benefits

  • Unlimited Person Reports
  • Unlimited Address Reports

Person Reports May Include

  • Email Addresses
  • Address History
  • Employment History
  • Educational History
  • Related Persons
  • Business Ownership
  • Assets
  • Criminal Records
  • Traffic Records
  • Court Records
  • And More

Address Lookup

Costs $0.95 for a 7-day trial, then $29.78 per month.

Member Benefits

  • Unlimited Address Reports
  • Unlimited Person Reports

Address Reports May Include

  • Residents
  • Neighbors
  • Location Details
  • Ownership History
  • Property Value
  • Evictions
  • Neighborhood Demographics
  • Nearby entertainment, restaurants, etc.
  • Crime Stats
  • Nearby Sex Offenders

What Details Can You Find When You Do A Background Check?

A background check is a common practice for many potential employers, landlords, and other organizations looking to gain information on an individual’s history, including their public records, phone number details, social media accounts, criminal record search data, age, date of birth, and former and current address.

Intelius offers checks that can reveal a comprehensive report through a broad range of details, from a person’s education history and employment history to any criminal records and even personal financial habits. The Intelius reviews show that you can do reverse address lookup or phone number searches and find accurate reports.

The better business bureau limits extensive database access and ensures your Intelius account doesn’t offer sensitive consumer credit data. If you want to limit what the Intelius homepage shows, you need to opt for your data to be removed manually.

Typically, the details collected in a background check will provide information about an individual’s former and current addresses, professional licenses held, past or present legal entanglements, motor vehicle records, drug testing records, and credit reports.

Educational public records can provide employers and landlords with a more detailed look, revealing the applicant’s college and university transcripts, areas of study, degrees, and any certifications they hold. Intelius reviews show that you can access employment public records, reverse address lookup, and other phone number details and people search data.

These can reveal an applicant’s employment history over a certain period of time, as well as their current or previous employers’ opinions on their performance and likelihood of future success. Employers may also access an applicant’s references and verify their identity as part of this process.

One of the most concerning bits of information a background check can uncover is a person’s criminal record. Criminal checks comb through various sources, from federal and state databases to police and records. By law, employers must obtain the applicant’s written permission before conducting a criminal background check.

Finally, checks often include a search for financial information such as bankruptcies, liens, judgments, and collection accounts past simple search engine platforms. This can reveal if an individual is having difficulty managing debt or if they are likely to make late payments on rent or any other financial obligations.

A background check from one of the leading background check service providers can provide potential landlords, employers, and other organizations a holistic view of an individual’s past and current status. Intelius reviews show you can do a reverse address lookup to learn more about potential employees.

While some of this information can be publicly accessible, it is important to remember that employers and other entities must adhere to certain privacy laws and respect the applicant’s right to know how their information is being collected and used.

Reasons Why People Do A Background Check

The internet has made doing checks easier than ever before. You can now find information about an individual or a company with a few clicks of your mouse. A background check is useful to employers, lenders, and other organizations to uncover a person’s history.

Here we look at five of the primary reasons people do a background check:

1. Pre-employment Screening

The primary reason companies do a people search check is to verify the identity and work history of potential employees. With the rise of identity theft and fraud becoming more prevalent, it is essential to ensure the person applying for a job is who they say they are. A background check is a cost-effective way to ensure the candidate has the qualifications they claim to have.

2. Criminal History

A background check can reveal the history and past offenses applicants commit. Most employers want to ensure their employees don’t have a criminal record which could lead to further trouble. Employers want to protect their company from potential liabilities, or harm employees may bring.

3. Education Verification

Applicants must prove they have the required education for the position in many industries. A background check can uncover if someone has falsified their educational qualifications or has omitted information.

4. Employment Reference Checks

Employers may choose to conduct reference checks on potential employees to ensure they are a suitable fit. It can also reveal any complaints or red flags that have been made against their previous employment.

5. Financial Viability

Some employers may also carry out a financial check of their potential employees. This can check their credit score, confirm past debt, uncover discrepancies in wages and other benefits, and other items related to their financial history.

Is Intelius Legit?

Intelius Premier is one of the most popular background check companies that allow people to search for information about other populations. It has gained traction with numerous people looking to learn more about the people around them, either for safety reasons or for conducting deeper checks on a person. Of course, the premier service is another Intelius cost to take into account.

The company has both brick and mortar presence with offices in multiple countries around the world and also an online platform for customers to carry out their search activities. Intelius has a dedicated team of professionals that work round the clock to provide customers with the best services and ensure their privacy and security.

Intelius Premier takes all the necessary steps to ensure its customers’ data is kept safe and secure. They have numerous security protocols, such as data encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure server infrastructure. Intelius conducts its searches with the help of its staff and also with a huge database of public records through criminal record search help.

They use data from sources such as court records, driver’s license records, birth records, and more. Intelius premier also uses multiple partnerships with other organizations, like direct marketing research and public access information. Intelius also uses data feeds from county, state, and federal government agencies to ensure that the details provided are accurate and updated.

You can contact their customer support to learn more about ‘Intelius reputable’ search systems. If you’re wondering, “is Intelius accurate?” the company keeps an up-to-date database of lost contact and location history, among other missing information, including unknown numbers or social media networks.

10 Ways To Protect Your Data

In this digital age, personal data is becoming more and more accessible, leaving all of us open to exploitation by malicious individuals and organizations. Having our information used without our consent is a major concern, as it can lead to direct financial losses, identity theft, and other more serious implications. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect yourself from such a fate.

Here are the ten most important ways to protect yourself from using your information without consent:

1. Be aware of phishing scams.

Phishing scams are among the most common ways malicious individuals will attempt to obtain your personal information. Be sure to be aware of the types of scams out there, so you can be prepared if you ever encounter one.

2. Monitor your accounts.

Regularly checking your personal accounts (bank, credit cards, investment, etc.) will allow you to quickly identify any suspicious activity that may have taken place or any unauthorized transactions that have been made.

3. Limit the amount of personal information you share online.

You should only share information that is absolutely necessary, especially on social media platforms. Remember, any data you make public can easily be taken and used without your consent.

4. Install anti-malware software.

This software will go a long way in keeping your computers secure and protect you from malicious software that can steal your information.

5. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

Using passwords that are difficult to guess and two-factor authentication, wherever possible, will help ensure that only you can access your personal accounts.

6. Use encryption.

Encrypting important documents and data will protect said documents from being easily accessed by unauthorized parties.

7. Shred your documents.

If you’re getting rid of sensitive documents, it’s best to shred them before disposing of them. This will ensure that the information can’t be easily retrieved. 8. Be mindful of online activities. Be careful not to click suspicious links, and be aware of what sites you visit and what information you input.

9. Invest in a secure paper shredder.

Buying a secure paper shredder (one that shreds paper into tiny pieces) is a great way to make sure that any documents that need to be disposed of won’t be of any use to an unauthorized person.

10. Always opt out of public directories.

If you can opt out of public directories, do it. This will ensure that your information isn’t available to anyone who comes across it. You can contact customer support to remove your online data from free reports or fine print.

Contact Erase Mugshots

In this day and age, it’s important to protect one’s records online from being abused or from falling into the wrong hands. This process can be challenging since it requires professional data removal from the deepest and darkest parts of the internet. If your personal details are on the web, careful monitoring for threats to your reputation is often required as well.

Learn more about how to remove negative content online by calling 866-601-6803 . If you need help protecting your privacy online, contact us now.

 

 

What Is The Best One Time Background Check?

Looking for the best one time background check service? We’ve put together a list of the very best based on criteria such as:

  • Information quantity and quality
  • Features
  • Value
  • Customer support
  • Legal transparency

We also go into more detail about how we selected these background checker services and reviewed them extensively to help you make the right choice. We even include some tips on how to find the best background checking service and plenty of other relevant information.

Read on to learn more about the top one time background check companies in our extensive guide!

The Top 10 One Time Background Check Companies

Here are our top ten best background check services and a short description of their strengths:

  1. Intelius – Top choice for one-time background checks
  2. InfoTracer – The best pick for accuracy
  3. Verispy – The best free background check firm
  4. GoodHire – Ideal for pre-employment checks
  5. TruthFinder – Includes a dark web scan
  6. Instant Checkmate – Top choice for criminal background searches
  7. USSearch.com – Best for tenant screening
  8. BeenVerified – Best background search app for mobile
  9. PeopleFinders – Excellent choice for dating checks
  10. PeopleLooker – Ideal for personal background checks

This selection is based on several stringent criteria, as mentioned above. Read on to learn more about why these services beat out the competition.

Reviews of the Top One Time Background Check Companies

Here’s a closer look at our ten best background check services:

1. Intelius

Best background check service overall

Intelius is easily our top pick for the best background check firm around. Accurate, reliable, and affordable, it is an especially good background checker for conducting personal research.

Intelius provides an extensive range of data in its results. Reports include everything from personal information and social media profiles to relationships and relatives, address history, phone numbers, and even criminal records.

Keep an eye out for deals on the company’s Premier Plus plan. It is usually priced at $29.95, but it occasionally goes for $14.95.

You could also conduct a one time people search and a reverse phone lookup for $0.95. Statewide criminal records are considerably more expensive at $19.95.

2. InfoTracer

Best for: Accuracy

InfoTracer is our top pick for accuracy. It is also one of the cheapest one time background check services around, which is always a plus.

For the price of just under $4, you get a 7-day unlimited pass that includes unlimited reports. This background checker site even has a deep web search feature which is ideally suited for finding out if your identity has been compromised.

A one time report will cost you $19.95, which is the same cost as its monthly subscription. But you could also try out the background check company for five days, which will only cost you $2.95.

3. Verispy

Best for: Free background checks

Verispy is our go-to choice for accurate data and fair pricing. It also doesn’t renew your subscription automatically, which is a plus. Extensive search options and a highly intuitive interface make it a good background check company for one time searches, especially for first-time users.

Verispy also generates accurate and detailed information much more quickly than other services, which is helpful if you need detailed reports fast.

A one time report will cost you $19.95, but you can get a one-week pass for only $24.95 with unlimited background reports. You could also spring for the 30-day pass, which costs only $29.95 with unlimited searches.

4. GoodHire

Best for: Pre-employment verification

Employers who need to conduct background checks on prospective applicants’ employment history and criminal history should definitely check out GoodHire. Apart from being the best background check site for employment verification, education verification, drug screening, and credit checks, it is also one of the very few that are FCRA approved.

GoodHire offers a pretty extensive range of search types. You can find everything from credit histories to civil court backgrounds, social media, education and employment history, and even drug, sex offense, and criminal records.

What GoodHire doesn’t have is a free trial period or money-back guarantee. You can perform a basic check for $29.99 or run a more detailed check for $54.99. A premium check will cost you $79.99.

5. TruthFinder

Best for: Dark web scans

In terms of features, TruthFinder comes in at the very top of the list. It offers a comprehensive range of features and even dark web monitoring and reverse phone lookup feature.

The easy to use interface makes it remarkably easy to unearth personal and social media information, family members, address history, property records, and even criminal record and civil judgment histories.

Amazingly, TruthFinder is very easy to use, relying on only a few search parameters to give you the information you’re looking for from criminal records, court registers, and other sources. The results are also consistently accurate, which should be expected from a reputable background checker.

A monthly membership with TruthFinder costs $30. You could also sign up for a 3-month plan at $26 per month. Both plans offer unlimited reports.

6. Instant Checkmate

Best for: Criminal background searches

Instant Checkmate has gotten an A+ rating from the BBB, a sign of its accuracy and reliability for a criminal background check. Instant Checkmate offers a wide range of public information search features, with many different search parameters to delve into someone’s criminal history or financial records.

Instant Checkmate allows you to do a thorough background check on search subjects simply by typing their names. You can also perform email and social media searches, check phone numbers and family members, look up criminal records and even sex offenses.

Although Instant Checkmate doesn’t offer free background checks, you can try out the service for five days for only a dollar. You can also perform a one time search for $19.99 or sign up for a monthly subscription for $22.86.

7. USSearch.com

Best for: Tenant screening

US Search is another background check service that offers an extensive range of features. The site provides multiple search options, and results are more accurate and reliable than most background check services.

US Search is especially suitable for tenant screening and performing criminal and property searches. Criminal reports are detailed and data-rich yet laid out remarkably well.

The site doesn’t offer a free trial period, and one time background searches are a bit expensive at $39.95. But you can go for the much more affordable basic people search for only $2.45.

8. BeenVerified

Best for: Mobile searches

BeenVerified is the best background check service for mobile devices. The app is well laid-out and extremely easy to use, allowing for a surprisingly wide range of search types.

Highlights include a username search and a vehicle lookup option, both of which provide consistently accurate results. But the service also allows you to find an extensive range of other data by typing in names, addresses, phone numbers, and social media details.

You can use BeenVerified to perform a one time background check, but you will have to pay for a membership plan to see the results. A one-month membership costs $26.89, while a three-month membership costs $52.44, which comes out to $17.48 per month.

9. PeopleFinders

Best for: Dating checks

For dating checks, few services compare to PeopleFinders. Of course, you can use it for many other types of searches as well, and you always get detailed results.

PeopleFinders gathers information from more than 43 billion public records and over 6,000 data sources. Its extensive network of data sources ensures accurate and verifiable results every time.

You can perform one time background checks with PeopleFinders via their affordable trial periods. A trial of the standard plan costs only $0.95, while the premium plan trial costs $3.95. You could also sign up for a monthly membership for $24.95 per month (standard) and $29.95 per month (premium).

10. PeopleLooker

Best for: Personal background checks

PeopleLooker is possibly the easiest background check service around. The site is extremely well laid-out, and it’s clear that a lot of effort went into ensuring a smooth and streamlined user experience.

All the essential search features for doing your own background checks are available, and search results are periodically updated with the latest information from civil records. Processing times can be a bit long, but the comprehensiveness of the background report makes it worth the wait

PeopleLooker doesn’t offer a free one time background check. But you can try out the service for five days for only a dollar. Monthly membership costs $22.86, while a three-month membership costs $18.28 per month.

How We Selected the Best One Time Background Check Sites

Here’s how we settled on the background check services in this rundown:

We first did an extensive search on the internet for background checking websites and services. We then did a quick but thorough look at some review sites to see which ones consistently ranked.

This was no small feat. There are literally hundreds of background check services out there, and most seem to offer pretty much the same features and functionality. Nevertheless, a few stood out against the rest and consistently topped the lists.

Our next step was to sign up for accounts with twenty or so of the best background check services. This was the hard part. We tested each one thoroughly to see if they delivered on their promises. Some did and ended up in our top ten list; others fell short.

We also went back and read more detailed reviews to see if customer experiences supported our findings. Those that consistently received favorable reviews were among our top picks as well. These were eventually shortlisted and made our top ten list.

Throughout our tests, we were always mindful of weighing the value of a particular service from an end-users standpoint. Although we took note of the technical and legal aspects of each service, we were firmly focused on how each would be helpful to the user.

Ultimately, we made our selection based on the following criteria:

  • Information accuracy
  • User-friendliness
  • Value for money
  • Customer service quality

What to Look for in One-Time Background Check Sites

Most background check sites offer very similar services, so it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. And considering that many charge a fee even for trial periods, it is essential to know what to look for when doing preliminary research.

Consider the following when choosing a background check site:

Accuracy

Accurate data is the bare minimum a background check site should provide. After all, what good is a search service if the background report is incomplete, inaccurate, or collected from out-of-date public records? Thankfully, all the services reviewed here have excellent reputations for accuracy.

Search Options

A good background check service will allow you to search for a person based on different criteria. Most sites allow you to type in a person’s name to generate a comprehensive background check report.

But what if all you have is a phone number, address, or social media profile? The best sites offer multiple search types of phone records, court records, medical records, social media accounts, and other public records.

Speed

The speed at which a site returns reports can be crucial. In some cases, you may need to perform background screening or credit checks on a potential employee or tenant quickly, which means you can’t afford to wait for hours to get background check reports. The best sites give you results in just a few minutes.

Cost

Background checking services vary considerably in terms of cost. Some charge only a few cents for a trial period or forego the trial fee altogether. Monthly rates can vary from $5 to $11 a month, which could be an important consideration if you have to perform regular searches.

Legality

The legality of background reports is a touchy subject, so we’re going to delve into it in more detail.

Background checks for a criminal record might seem like a standard part of screening a tenant or interviewing a prospective employee. But there are times when running a check on a person’s criminal history or arrest records is inappropriate and even illegal.

The main issue when you run a background check is running afoul of a federal law known as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

FCRA essentially governs the collection, dissemination, and usage of consumer data. It is intended to ensure fairness and accuracy in matters involving specific persons. FCRA ensures that any data gathered when you run a background check won’t adversely affect a person’s ability to obtain the following:

  • Employment
  • Medical services
  • Consumer credit
  • Insurance and banking services
  • Housing

FCRA and Pre-Employment Background Checks

Knowledge of the FCRA is especially critical when running pre-employment background checks. The law states that prospective employees can’t be denied a position in a particular firm based on information discovered via an online background check service of social media accounts or other data sources.

Misinformation isn’t the only issue. Anyone subject to a background check has the right to refute any findings and conduct their own investigation to clear their name. But they shouldn’t have to do that when applying for a job, getting insurance, or renting an apartment.

FCRA essentially protects prospective employees from being penalized for information that may not be accurate or relevant anymore. If they have already settled their debts, for example, court records shouldn’t be used as a basis to be rejected for a company position.

Furthermore, the FCRA doesn’t consider background check sites as Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRA). Consequently, most can’t be used to determine an individual’s eligibility for employment, insurance, credit, or tenancy.

Legal Use of Background Checks

Background check services can be used for legitimate purposes. But doing so should always consider fairness and conformance with federal law, particularly the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

How can you ensure the legality of background checks you conduct on someone? Firstly, only rely on information that you get from a consumer reporting agency or an FCRA-complaint background check service.

Using either of these services ensures that you don’t utilize irrelevant or unlawful information that would be detrimental to the search subject. These include:

  • Misdemeanor criminal records from seven or more years ago
  • Bankruptcy records from ten or more years ago
  • Unpaid tax liens from seven or more years ago
  • Account collections from seven or more years ago
  • Inaccurate and wrongful accusations

The second way to ensure the legality of a background check is to always get permission before running a background check. Doing so will help you avoid a potentially costly lawsuit.

It is also advisable to present the search subject with a disclosure signifying adverse action. These should explain the planned action, along with a statement of FCRA compliance.

The disclosure should be accompanied by an adverse action notice. This notice should include the background check service’s company name, address, and phone number.

Finally, consider sending the subject a notice for dispute. This provides them the opportunity to clarify possible errors and issues with the report. For example, they could prove they were acquitted of a particular charge or clear up multiple reports involving a single case.

 

Conclusion

Background check services can be very valuable and helpful resources for identity verification. They can be used by employers, landlords, insurance investigators, law enforcement personnel, professional background screeners, and anyone looking for background information, contact details, or arrest records of a particular person.

One-time background check services are especially useful for those that need to conduct background searches only occasionally. They are more cost-effective than monthly site subscriptions, and the comprehensive report can be just as effective.

Any of the services reviewed here should help you find the results you are looking for. Whether you want background information on yourself or someone else, education history, previous addresses, contact details, or criminal records of a prospective tenant, employee, or even a date, these services should be helpful for your research.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’ve performed a background check on yourself — or are worried a prospective employer, financial services group, or individual will find your personal details during a background check — we can help.

If you need help erasing your sensitive and personal information online, it’s time to take action. Contact us now and learn more about how to remove your information online with our proven background check service.  We also provide a cutting-edge reputation monitoring service to help you stay abreast of emerging threats in the digital environment.

Learn more about how to remove harmful content online by calling 866-601-6803 . If you need help protecting your privacy online, contact us now.

 

Does TruthFinder Show SSN? 

Does TruthFinder show SSN (Social Security Number) in online searches? Learn everything you need to know about protecting sensitive personal information with our Truthfinder privacy guide below. 

Are you worried about your Social Security Number (SSN) falling into the wrong hands? Unauthorized access and use of SSNs is a common thread in most cases of identity theft in the digital age. And victims are often unaware that they’ve been targeted until it is too late.

 

If you’ve been wondering about whether your SSN and other confidential data shows up in a people search or background check of public records conducted via the TruthFinder app, here’s where you can find out if your concerns are valid. Read on to learn what detailed information TruthFinder provides in a background check and the risks associated with having your SSN available on public records on the internet.

 

Does TruthFinder Show Social Security Numbers in Search Reports?

Does TruthFinder show SSN in background checks? Thankfully, no.

 

TruthFinder does not reveal the social security numbers of subjects in their background check reports. Providing this type of personally identifiable information poses serious security issues and may increase the subject’s risk of falling victim to identity theft.

 

Scammers and identity thieves can cause considerable damage if they get a hold of someone’s social security number after running a background check or taking advantage of data breaches. This is why, in addition to withholding SSNs, many background check firms provide tools for protecting sensitive data from those engaged in identity theft.

 

TruthFinder offers a Dark Web scan service called “Dark Web Monitoring”. After inputting their SSN, users will receive an alert informing them if that information is available on the Dark Web. They could then take the appropriate measures to protect their identity and safeguard themselves from identity theft.

 

A Quick Look at TruthFinder

 

TruthFinder is a background check and reverse lookup service that provides information on subjects. Users typically type in the name of a person in the site’s search box, after which they get a range of available information on the person from public records and even private databases and arrest records.

 

TruthFinder membership also provides access to more detailed features, such as a reverse phone lookup. This can be useful for finding the right person based only on a phone number search of unknown numbers.

 

Apart from TruthFinder, only a few other companies that conduct background checks offer reverse phone lookup services. One of these is Instant Checkmate, which offers many similar features and equally accurate results. Neither site offers a free trial period, but they both have an excellent customer service team and affordable rates for monthly membership.

 

Like other similar services, TruthFinder is typically used for running a background check on specific individuals, such as a new hire, registered sex offenders, or two people with the same name. It is also sometimes used to double check a person’s credit history.

 

Some people also use TruthFinder for tenant screening, but this isn’t allowed under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Sites such as TruthFinder aren’t considered a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, so the info it provides can’t be used for screening tenants, employees, or insurance plan applicants.

 

But the TruthFinder background check service can also be used to obtain accurate information via background checks of public records and criminal records. This makes the service an invaluable tool for private investigators, law enforcement personnel, and other authorities tasked with investigating illegal activities and criminal behavior.

TruthFinder background check service is based in San Diego, California, and was launched in 2014. Like the best background check services, it strives to present accurate information by collecting up-to-date data from a wide range of reliable sources, including public records and court and criminal records.

 

TruthFinder enjoys a generally favorable reputation among its users. A quick test of the service’s background checks and numerous TruthFinder reviews reveal that it provides accurate and up-to-date information on subjects without the irrelevant or confusing data common with other background check services.

 

Dangers of SSN Exposure Online

 

Why is it so important to ensure that your SSN isn’t available on a background check on the internet? Even if the answer to the question “will TruthFinder show SSN?” is no, other people search sites, data brokers, and personal information sources might.

 

Unauthorized access to a person’s SSN is associated with many common cybercrimes, including identity theft. With access to your SSN, cybercriminals can open new accounts or receive medical benefits in your name, and even claim your Social Security benefits.

 

Here’s a list of some of the things that could happen if cybercriminals get access to your SSN via a background check:

 

  • Credit cards or loans obtained in your name
  • Bank accounts opened in your name
  • Driver’s licenses obtained in your name
  • Medical care or benefits diverted to other parties
  • Phone accounts opened in your name
  • Crimes committed appear on your criminal records
  • Fraudulent claims of Social Security checks and benefits
  • Fraudulent access to utilities
  • Fraudulent tax returns in your name

 

All these threats are very real possibilities when your SSN falls into the wrong hands. This is why it is so important to find out which of your personal information is available via an online background check and how to remove them.

 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common threats:

 

Credit Cards or Loans Obtained in Your Name

 

Having access to your SSN allows cybercriminals to apply for credit cards or loans using your name. They could then perform fraudulent transactions‒again, in your name‒and damage your credit standing.

 

This is a more common threat than you might think. More than 363,000 recorded cases of credit card fraud involving new accounts were recorded in 2020.

 

Bank Accounts Opened in Your Name

 

You might be surprised to realize how little information is required to open a bank account nowadays. With only your SSN, address, and birthdate, cybercriminals could easily open a new account in your name.

 

Once the fraudulent bank account is set up, it can be used for money laundering purposes. Worse for you, it can be used to apply for overdraft protection, after which it can be used to accumulate debts, all under your name.

 

Driver’s Licenses Obtained in Your Name

 

It can be just as easy to get a fraudulent driver’s license in your name simply by providing your name, address, and SSN. This basically amounts to identity theft and is often very difficult to trace.

 

In many cases, the only indication that you’ve been victimized by identity theft is the issuance of arrest warrants and tickets for traffic violations. If you receive these notices from states you haven’t visited recently, contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your state immediately.

 

Medical Care or Benefits Diverted to Others

 

Identity thieves can also use your name and SSN to claim medical benefits. They could then forward any bills to your insurer. On average, people victimized by identity theft scams pay up to $13,500 to clear their names.

 

Phone Accounts Opened in Your Name

 

Opening a phone account can also be easily done with just your name, address, and SSN. Cybercriminals that open fraudulent phone accounts in your name can rack up bills and long distance charges with your phone number, for which you will be held responsible by the phone company.

 

Crimes Committed Appear on Your Criminal Records

 

Criminals can use your name and SSN to identify themselves to law enforcement personnel if they are arrested. Doing so may provide them the opportunity to evade incarceration and tie you up in criminal proceedings. This could have severe long-term consequences to your professional and personal life.

 

Fraudulent Claims of Social Security Checks and Benefits

 

SSNs are associated with benefits programs, including Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). By using your SSN, scammers could take advantage of your benefits and leave you without financial assistance in your time of need.

 

Fraudulent Access to Utilities

 

Many utility companies ask for SSNs when an individual applies for a new account. If a scammer has your Social Security number, they could apply for an account or request upgrades to their services. You would then be left to foot the bill unless you can get the issue resolved.

 

Fraudulent Tax Returns in Your Name

 

Finally, fraudsters can file a tax return and claim a refund in your name. Often, the only indication that you’ve been victimized is your inability to file a tax return, even if you had done so before.

 

How Prevalent is Unauthorized SSN Access?

 

The theft of SSNs is a lot more common than most people might think. Estimates place the percentage of U.S. citizens that have had their Social Security numbers stolen by hackers at 60% to 80%. There are likely many more unreported cases of SSN theft or unauthorized access to information obtained via background checks.

 

What Personal Information Does TruthFinder Provide?

 

TruthFinder’s background checks don’t provide sensitive personal information that can jeopardize the search subject’s financial security, such as SSNs. But it will reveal a surprising amount of information, some of which can place the subject at risk when accessed by a third party.

 

Like most background-checking services, TruthFinder provides the home address, photo, and phone numbers of a subject in response to a basic search. But more intensive searches such as a Dark Web scan will call up more in-depth search results. The site’s Dark Web Monitoring feature provides information such as:

 

  • Birthdates
  • Traffic records
  • Past location history and former addresses
  • Previous phone numbers
  • Consumer credit report
  • Criminal history
  • Educational background
  • Political affiliation
  • Social media accounts
  • Census information
  • Professional licenses and permits
  • Financial assets

​​

TruthFinder’s background report also provides info on possible candidates’ friends and possible relatives and even personal relationships.

 

Where Does TruthFinder Find Personal Information?

 

How does TruthFinder gather accurate results? Is the service provided by the site even legal? In short, is TruthFinder legit?

 

It might seem that sites such as TruthFinder are guilty of right-to-privacy violations. But they actually operate within the bounds of the law. This is because all the information they divulge is readily available and a matter of public record, as verified by many TruthFinder reviews.

 

TruthFinder collects information from the following sources:

 

  • Public information records
  • Online registries
  • Social media feeds and profiles
  • Publications
  • Other online databases

 

All these are publicly accessible sources that can be found on the internet. After performing a thorough online scan, TruthFinder consolidates all the data into a single results page. So the site essentially utilizes information sources available to anyone but makes searching quicker and easier for TruthFinder members.

 

What can You do if Your SSN is on the Internet?

 

Having your SSN and other personal information readily available on the internet is a serious cause for concern. Considering everything that could happen if the information acquired is accessible to unauthorized parties, it is vital to know how to protect your privacy.

 

How can you do that? Your best option would be to remove all traces of information that you don’t want to fall into the wrong hands. But this is easier said than done.

 

To cover your digital tracks on the internet completely, you would have to remove every bit of your personal information from every reporting entity that has that information.

 

Remember, services such as TruthFinder get data from public and court records, city and state registers, and many other publicly accessible sources. Therefore, you would have to contact each of these entities individually and ask to have your information removed.

 

Be aware that not all of the organizations you contact will be willing to cooperate or give in to your request. Background check sites and data brokers consider personal data as valuable commodities, so many won’t make it easy for you to have that information removed.

 

If you want to prevent your personal information from being accessible to anyone, you have a few options:

 

  • Request Google and other search engines to remove your information
  • File a privacy complaint with the relevant platform or governing agency
  • “Opt out” of having your information shared with data brokers
  • Hire a dedicated service to have your information removed

 

Removing Personal Information From TruthFinder

 

You will probably find plenty of your personal information on TruthFinder after performing a self-background check. If any of the data points back to you and you want it removed, you can do so via the following steps:

 

  1. Browse to the “opt-out” section of the TruthFinder website.
  2. Enter your name, city, and state in response to the prompt.
  3. On the results page, you will be directed to identify your record by confirming your age and known relatives.
  4. Select your record and click on the option marked “Remove this Record.”
  5. Confirm your email address by entering it at the prompt.
  6. Check your inbox for the confirmation email sent by TruthFinder and follow the instructions.

 

If all goes well, your record should be removed within 48 hours.

 

Getting Professional Help Removing Your SSN From TruthFinder

 

As you can see, removing your personal information from TruthFinder is a long, drawn-out, and complicated process. And that’s for only one background checking service. To remove your data from other sites, you will have to go through similar procedures for each.

 

An alternative is to hire a professional firm to remove your personal information for you. Many companies offer such services, saving you the time and trouble of having to track down each individual source and going through the time-consuming removal process.

 

Information removal services work in a similar way as background-checking services. They scour the internet looking for relevant information from online databases, city and state registries, social media channels, and data brokers.

 

But instead of collating this data and presenting it in a results page, they go through the tedious and time-consuming processes of having the information removed from the providers in question.

 

The beauty of these services is that they make it extremely easy to remove information you don’t want to make available to the public, such as your phone number and criminal record. Instead of having to track down each source and requesting your information to be taken down, you only need to perform a simple procedure that takes a few clicks.

 

Furthermore, these services remove your information from all the providers that have them. Even if you are unaware of a particular provider that has your SSN or other data, information removal services will track them down and go through the removal procedure.

 

Procedure for Getting  SSNs Removed With a Professional Service

 

Information removal services make it extremely easy to remove your SSN and other personal data from sites such as TruthFinder. Furthermore, they can remove the information from multiple sources simultaneously.

 

This is the procedure for removing personal information using DoNotPay. Other services will likely use a similar procedure.

 

  • Search for the “Remove My Information” option on the DoNotPay website.
  • Choose the source from which you want your information removed. Options include Google, YouTube, or data brokers.
  • To remove information from Google or YouTube, provide the URL and other details about the content you want to remove.
  • To remove information from data brokers, choose the site which you want the data removed from. Alternatively, you can select the “all-in” option, which removes your information from all accessible data brokers.

 

DoNotPay will automatically submit opt-out and removal requests for each source as needed. You should then receive a confirmation email from every source that the request was sent.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’ve performed a background check on yourself and discovered the presence of sensitive personal information like Social Security numbers or other details, we can help you protect your digital privacy.

 

If you need help erasing your sensitive and personal information online, it’s time to take action. Contact us now and learn more about how to remove your information online with our proven content removal services.  We also provide a cutting-edge reputation monitoring service to help you stay abreast of emerging threats in the digital environment. Call 866-601-6803 and find out how to secure your data online.

Intelius Vs TruthFinder: Which Is Better?

Among the leading background check services, Intelius and TruthFinder consistently come out on top. But which one is the best at performing background searches? Take a look at this comparison of Intelius vs TruthFinder to find out which background check site is the best one for you.

 

When it comes to background check services, two names stand out among all the rest: Intelius and TruthFinder. With so many reputable firms offering comprehensive packages that make searching backgrounds remarkably easy, these two consistently come in at the top of the list.

What makes Intelius and TruthFinder the top background check services in the business? For one thing, these popular background check companies both offer access to an extensive array of public records.

Both services also provide in-depth reports covering your subject’s background in precise and accurate detail. These qualities alone place Intelius and TruthFinder several tiers ahead of the closest competitor.

Intelius vs. TruthFinder: Background Check Services Comparison

Intelius and TruthFinder actually have plenty in common with each other. In many ways, they are more alike than different. Even so, each has unique features and capabilities that you can’t find in the other, so your choice ultimately depends on your needs.

Let’s take a look at which each background check service has to offer!

Intelius

Intelius is one of the most popular and most highly-regarded background check services around. It offers a good selection of different search types, along with a host of features that make background searches easier and more accurate.

Some of the most helpful of these are the reverse address and reverse phone lookup search. A quick look at some of the top background checking services in the business reveals that Intelius is one of the few companies that offers this particular feature.

Reverse address and reverse phone lookup are both great ways to find someone’s identity based only on a known address or phone number. If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, for example, reverse phone lookup can be helpful for tracing the caller’s identity.

Intelius claims to provide accurate information gathered from a wide array of data sources. After verifying the results of a handful of searches, we concluded that the site is indeed more accurate than most.

Features

Intelius offers a pretty impressive range of services and search options. Apart from the typical address, phone number, email, age and birth information, it also lets you search the following:

  • Criminal records
  • Property records
  • Address history
  • Sex offenses
  • Court judgments
  • Educational history
  • Marriages and divorces
  • Birth records
  • Genealogy
  • Social media profiles

Unfortunately, Intelius doesn’t provide details about assets, bankruptcies, or tax liens.

Interface

Intelius has a slick, clean, and easy to use interface. Clearly designed for quick and easy searches, it allowed us to navigate to where we wanted with a minimum of fuss. Even if we’d never used this background check service before, we were able to dig deep into its extensive features within minutes.

Customer Support

We had some difficulty getting a customer service representative on the line, but we managed to connect with one after a few tries. The good news is that their support staff is friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable, whether answering queries or helping with technical concerns.

Supported Platforms

Intelius is accessible via a browser-based website or a downloadable mobile app. The app supports iOS and Android devices.

Pricing

Intelius offers a subscription plan for $19.95 a month. This gives you access to most of the main people search features of the site, but you have to pay $2.95 extra for a complete background check service and $49.95 for criminal reports. That seems pretty steep for a single report, considering we’re already paying about $20 for the monthly subscription.

Intelius does offer a free trial period. But the duration tends to change from time to time, from two to seven days.

Pros

  • Good customer service (if you can reach them!)
  • Good range of search options and detailed reports
  • Offers reverse phone number and address lookup
  • Highly rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
  • Subscribers get unlimited background checks
  • Allows social media searches

Cons

  • Additional charge for a single report for criminal background checks from police records
  • Information on assets, bankruptcies, and tax liens isn’t provided

TruthFinder

TruthFinder is equally respectable and has established a strong reputation as one of the best background check services since it was founded in 2003. It boasts a wider range of search options than most other services‒including Intelius‒and the results seem pretty accurate as far as we can tell.

Like the best background check services, TruthFinder obtains its information from a wide range of public records. But it also utilizes many other resources that aren’t available to other background checking services.

What does this mean for background checkers? With TruthFinder, you can dig up details about a person’s social media accounts, arrest records, addresses, phone numbers, and other data that typical background search services would give you.

But TruthFinder also digs up information on bankruptcies, assets, and tax liens. Depending on your purposes for running a people search, the inclusion of this data might be crucial to you.

Perhaps the most important advantage of TruthFinder is the option to scan the Dark Web. Whether you’re looking for a detailed report on deeply hidden secrets or you want to find out if you’ve fallen prey to identity theft, TruthFinder is the best background check service for you.

Features

TruthFinder’s feature set is even more impressive than Intelius’. In addition to the standard contact details and personal information provided by most background checking services, it also covers the following:

  • Assets
  • Bankruptcies
  • Tax liens
  • Criminal background
  • Sex offenses
  • Court judgments
  • Employment
  • Marriage and divorce records
  • Education
  • Birth records
  • Genealogy
  • Social media profiles

Interface

TruthFinder’s user interface is just as easy to use as Intelius’. Intuitive and elegant, it allowed us to perform complete background checks with a few clicks of the mouse. The background checker site has a polished, modern look as well, which we found quite attractive.

Customer Support

TruthFinder’s support team is a bit easier to get a hold of, although assistance isn’t available 24/7. We liked having several different options to contact customer support, including phone, email, and social media. Our experience with the support staff was generally positive.

Supported Platforms

TruthFinder can be accessed via the website if you are using a computer. You could also download the mobile app, which supports iOS and Android devices.

Pricing

A monthly subscription with TruthFinder costs $23.02. There is also a five-day free trial period, which gives you the opportunity to decide if the site is for you.

TruthFinder offers a money-back guarantee, which is always a plus. There are no charges for additional services either, which earns the company high marks from us.

Pros

  • Offers an extensive range of search options
  • Covers a huge range of data, including asset, bankruptcy, and tax lien information
  • Well-laid out site with an easy-to-use interface
  • Helpful information on how to use the service
  • Scans the Dark Web for personal information

Cons

  • Customer support isn’t available 24/7
  • No community forums or live chat

Intelius vs TruthFinder: Our Verdict

After extensive testing, Intelius and TruthFinder both clearly deserve every bit of acclaim they’ve gotten from the online community. The two services are quite capable, offer affordable background checks, and come with a range of helpful features that make it easy for anyone to find the information they are looking for.

We do feel that Intelius has a slight edge in terms of ease of use. The interface is a joy to work with, and we found that we could get around the search bar quickly with very little clicking around.

Intelius also offers better customer support. Even though the support staff can be difficult to get a hold of, the representative we spoke to was helpful and knowledgeable.

Where TruthFinder comes out ahead is in the range of search options available. Unlike Intelius, it offers users the ability to search for information on assets, bankruptcies, and tax liens. It also searches the Dark Web for search subject information, which could be invaluable for intensive background investigation.

So which one do we recommend? Both services are very capable, and you should be able to get some valuable information regardless of which you go for.

If ease of use and customer support are your priorities, Intelius has a slight advantage. But if you need a wider range of search options‒including the ability to search the Dark Web, TruthFinder might be the better choice.

Background Check Service FAQ

Why Would You Need a Background Checking Service?

There are many reasons to commission a background check on someone. You might want to know about a person’s suitability for employment or property you are renting out. You might be curious about whether someone is related to you or if you have a common history.

You might also be tasked with updating an organization’s roster or need personal information about a member you can’t contact. All these are valid reasons to run a background check on someone.

Keep in mind that some restrictions apply with regard to using background checks for certain purposes. Depending on the situation, you may not be legally allowed to use the information however you wish. This will be explained further in the section below: “When is Running a Background Check Inadvisable?”

What Do Background Checks Usually Include?

The best background check sites can unearth basic personal details, including:

  • Current and previous addresses
  • Phone numbers
  • Traffic records
  • Court records
  • Criminal convictions
  • Properties owned

Of course, the information you get from such a check depends on the search type and the particular company offering the services. But most firms will be able to supply you with the above information.

Some of the best background check services go beyond this basic information, identifying social media profiles, historical records, and even presence on the Dark Web. Such services are generally more comprehensive than others, offering up-to-date information that would be difficult, if not impossible, to find elsewhere.

Do Criminal Records Show Up in Background Checks?

Criminal records are some of the most common pieces of information searched for in a background check. Most sites offer these services, gathering information from a wide variety of sources, including local, state, and federal records.

It is important to note that the criminal records called up in most background searches are limited to actual convictions. Arrests generally aren’t included, whether for felony or misdemeanor offenses.

Are Background Check Results Guaranteed?

Not all background check offer guaranteed results. In fact, the companies that do are in the minority. In lieu of a guarantee, some firms offer a free trial period or a specified number of free searches. This gives you an opportunity to check the accuracy of the information provided by the site.

Of the two services profiled here, only TruthFinder has a money-back guarantee. Intelius offers its users a free trial, which may last from two to seven days.

How Accurate are Background Checks?

Intelius and TruthFinder provide accurate results most of the time, but the same can’t be said for all background check services. While most providers strive to accurate and up-to-date results, user complaints about inaccuracies and missing details are common. In particular, if you’ve had your criminal or arrest reports expunged, these records may still turn up in searches.

What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)? How Does it Relate to Background Checks?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law aimed at protecting consumer privacy. It essentially forbids the use of consumer information obtained from a consumer reporting agency for certain purposes.

Under the FCRA, online background checking services such as Intelius and TruthFinder aren’t classified as consumer reporting agencies.

Consequently, the information provided by background check companies in response to a background check can’t be used to determine a particular person’s eligibility for insurance, rental agreements, or employment contracts.

When is Running a Background Check Inadvisable?

Running a background check to decide whether a person can be hired or accepted as a tenant isn’t allowed under the FCRA. So while you may run unlimited searches
on a coworker’s or neighbor’s background, you can’t use information such as criminal history from a background check service to decide their qualifications for employment or tenancy.

Can I Background Check Myself?

Performing a background check on yourself is not only legal but also advisable. You can use either‒or both‒of the services reviewed here to look up information about yourself. Doing so could help you determine the accuracy of your personal information online or help you obtain information on long-lost family members, a previous address, or employment or marriage records.

Running a background check on yourself is also a good way to gauge the accuracy and completeness of the information provided by a particular service. Since the information is likely known to you, you will be better able to make a more informed decision about the quality of service provided.

How Long Does a Background Check Take?

The best background check companies‒Intelius and TruthFinder included‒can give you back results in as little as a few minutes. More detailed searches can take longer, and other services take much more time getting the results back to you.

Some services also request additional data after presenting you with the initial search results in order to verify the information. This can add considerably to the search time when looking up someone’s criminal background.

How Much do You Pay for a Background Check?

Intelius offers a subscription plan priced at $19.95 a month. But this applies only to the company’s core features. To get access to more comprehensive background checks, you will have to pay $2.95 on top of the subscription rate. To get access to state and countrywide criminal records, you will have to pay $49.95 per search.

TruthFinder offers a monthly membership for $23.02 per month. Other companies can charge considerably more or less, depending on the depth of the search and the services availed.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’ve performed a background check on yourself — or are worried a prospective employer, financial services group, or individual will find your personal details during a background check — we can help.

If you need help erasing your sensitive and personal information online, it’s time to take action. Contact us now and learn more about how to remove your information online with our proven background check service.  We also provide a cutting-edge reputation monitoring service to help you stay abreast of emerging threats in the digital environment. Call 866-601-6803 and find out how to secure your data online.

Checkmate vs BeenVerified: Is Checkmate Better Than BeenVerified?

In the battle of Checkmate vs BeenVerified, who comes out on top? Our complete guide to background check services and sites can help you find the answers you’re looking for.

 

Background checks have become invaluable tools for employers and business owners over the past several years. Essential for vetting new employees and forging partnerships, they also serve valuable purposes in our everyday lives.

Nowadays, it isn’t unusual for employers to run background checks on employees. Even corporate executives pay for verification services to learn more about people and companies they plan on partnering with and to safeguard against identity theft.

Among the many background checking companies operating today, Checkmate and BeenVerified are arguably two of the most popular. Both firms offer a wide range of background checking and identity verification services, with varying degrees of success.

In this article, we examine the two firms head-to-head to help you decide which one is the best for you. We go over some of their featured services, their strengths and weaknesses, and their reputation among paying customers.

We also run down some of the best background check services in the business, so you can get a better idea of other alternatives available. Plus, we offer some suggestions on what to look for in a background checking firm and other information relevant to using such services.

 

Checkmate vs. BeenVerified: Which is the Best Background Check Service?

Checkmate and BeenVerified are the two of the most popular background check companies in our list of the best background check services. Here’s how they fare against each other:

Checkmate

Checkmate bills itself as a “fully automated online reference checking and background screening software”. It offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at speeding up and simplifying recruitment and onboarding processes. Fully automated and mobile-friendly, Checkmate also allows for extensive customization of the background search functions unlike other sites.

Quick Facts

  • A dedicated online reference checking and background screening tool
  • Easy to use and extensively customizable
  • Gathers information from hundreds of sources worldwide
  • Especially suited for hiring and onboarding processes
  • Free trial available with no setup or fixed contracts required

Services

Checkmate offers the following services:

  • Reference checking
  • Pre-employment screening
  • Employee onboarding
  • Reporting and monitoring
  • Option to purchase individual reports

Search Process

Checkmate’s search process is a breeze to go through, especially compared to BeenVerified’s lengthy and complicated procedure. The site employs “Dynamic Reference Checking”, which involves answering a dynamic questionnaire based on normal everyday conversations.

Checkmate also offers other tools that make the search process easier and quicker. These include a template builder, a consolidated report, and a questionnaire library. The site even has fraud alerts that inform you of potentially false or erroneous information.

Customer Feedback

Customers that use Checkmate have positive things to say about the service’s simplicity and ease of use. Its straightforward approach to background searches helps many HR professionals shorten the time it takes to perform administrative tasks, which is always a plus.

Overall, customer feedback on Checkmate is overwhelmingly positive.

Verdict

In our comparison tests of BeenVerified vs Checkmate, the latter is clearly the winner. Simple and easy to use, it is an excellent reference checking and background screening tool for recruitment and onboarding . Full automation makes it a joy to use and the results are as accurate as those we’ve gotten from the best of the other services we reviewed.

Pricing

  • $17.00 for one-time searches.
  • $145 for the Plus pack, which includes 10 checks.
  • Custom pricing for the Enterprise pack.
  • Reference checks include three referees for each candidate. Checkmate also offers three free checks as part of its free trial package.

BeenVerified

BeenVerified offers “consumer-initiated” background checking services via its website and mobile app. Covering criminal background and more general people searches, it offers guaranteed results, which is relatively rare among background search services.

Quick Facts

  • Used by more than a million searchers worldwide
  • Providing background check services for over 15 years
  • Allows searches by name, phone, address, and email. Searches can also focus on vehicles and property owned, social media channels, and businesses.
  • Guaranteed results

Services

BeenVerified offers the following services:

  • People search
  • Reverse phone lookups
  • Address lookup
  • Email lookup
  • Vehicle search

Search Process

BeenVerified’s search process be quite complicated compared to Checkmate’s more straightforward search process. After you enter your subject’s name in the search bar, you can’t easily provide more details that will help you narrow down the results. Instead, you will have to wait until the name search process completes, after which you can provide more details.

But it doesn’t end there. BeenVerified also requires you to answer questions about the information you need. Furthermore, you have to provide your name and email address, and only then will the database be searched. This process can take up to ten minutes to complete.

Customer Feedback

Users of BeenVerified generally have a positive experience with the service. There are criticisms about the somewhat convoluted way searches are performed, but the results usually make up for the sluggishness of the process.

Verdict

BeenVerified is quite a capable background check service that is somewhat hindered by the slow and complicated process of performing searches. The results are pretty accurate in most cases, which is the most important aspect of using such services. If they could somehow simplify the search process and make it easier for users to provide information, the system would be much improved.

Pricing

  • $26.89 for the monthly subscription with 100 background check searches.
  • $52.44 for a 3-month plan that includes 100 reports per month.

The 11 Best Background Check Services

 

Here are the 11 best background checking services we tried out while creating this guide:

1. Checkmate

A simple yet powerful background check company with a fast, simple, and easy to use interface. Accurate results and excellent support make this our top pick for the best background check service.

2. BeenVerified

A very capable background check system that is letdown a bit by a complicated search process. Still a good choice for pre-employment background checks and searching criminal histories.

3. PeopleFinders

Excellent value in a background checking service. Offers a generous trial period with no issues opting out. Accurate results and a great deal on affordable background checks if you go for the monthly subscription.

4. Spokeo

Provides access to over 12 billion records in thousands of databases across the world. Used in more than 500,000 searches daily, although the process for generating a background report does require a few extra steps.

5. Info Tracer

InfoTracer has been providing background check and verification services for nearly two decades. Searches can be performed using a wide range of search terms, with access to more than five billion records.

6. Direct Screening

Another services that has been around for close 20 years. Has a simple and somewhat basic-looking site compared to other background check services, but the results speak for themselves. One of the few services that offer FCRA-compliant background checks.

7. Find Out The Truth

Owned and operated by licensed private investigators and professional background screeners, this service goes well beyond the online database checks performed by most other firms. Also offers a more extensive range of comprehensive background checks and report types than most firms.

8. US Search

Owned by PeopleConnect, the same company that owns Instant Checkmate, Truthfinder, and Intelius. A bit slow and cumbersome to use, but the results are pretty accurate and the price is very reasonable.

9. Intelius

Similar to US Search, Truthfinder, or Instant Checkmate, which isn’t surprising considering all four services are owned by the same parent company. But this one is quicker than most, returning accurate reports and results to basic background check within minutes.

10. Truthfinder

A remarkably straightforward background check service from the owners of Instant Checkmate, offering verifiably accurate results. Searches can be performed by name, city/state, or phone number, and results are returned within three minutes.

11. Instant Checkmate

Instant Checkmate offers a good range of search starting points, even reverse phone lookup. The Instant Checkmate website is especially capable at searching inmate and criminal records. Instant Checkmate can be pretty slow, but results are generally satisfactory.

 

What Type of Background Checks are Available to Private Individuals?

Most background checks today focus on one of two key areas: general backgrounds and criminal backgrounds. General background checks are usually the most comprehensive, including details such as births, marriages, and divorces. Most also include a list of all the subject’s past and present residences and phone numbers.

General background checks may also include the subject’s financial history, in particular, whether they have filed for bankruptcy. If they have ever been incarcerated, that information will appear in the check as well.

As you can imagine, general background check can be quite complex. For this reason, they tend to be more expensive to conduct than criminal checks.

As the name suggests, criminal background check are focused primarily on the subject’s criminal records and convictions. But depending on the laws of the particular jurisdiction, details about previous or current arrests may not be included in the report. With criminal checks, only convictions can be mentioned.

What to Look for in a Background Check Service

With so many companies providing background checks these days, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some criteria that should help you make a more informed decision:

Accuracy: People that commission background checks generally assume that the information provided to them is accurate. But this isn’t always the case

It’s surprising to note that the majority of firms don’t guarantee the accuracy of their reports. Public records often have erroneous entries, and most sites simply go with information presented at face value and don’t bother to dig deeper.

That being said, some companies have established their reputations on providing accurate and high-quality data. It might be a good idea to do a search for your own information to determine how accurate a particular service is if you check on someone else’s background.

Value: Ask yourself what you will be getting for your money. Is it worth the amount you will be paying? Does the company offer a free initial check or trial period that allows you to test their service before you sign up for the paid plan? Can you generate unlimited reports?

The answer to these questions will help you determine how much value the service provides.

Reputation: Check out what previous customers have to say about the service. Did they have a positive or negative experience with the background check? Are there perks such as unlimited reports? You may also look up the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Support: Customer support is essential for getting the most out of a background check service. Not all companies provide this, so find out the range and extent of assistance they can provide. You should also ensure that support personnel are available to address any concerns you may have and that there is a background check service FAQ onsite.

What Do Background Checks Typically Include?

Background check companies vary considerably with regard to the extent and range of services they offer. Most also have different approaches to seeking out data and making the results available to you.

In any case, most services provide the same‒or similar‒information. Arrest records‒even recorded traffic violations‒are often included. The search should also reveal address history, previous phone numbers, owned properties, and court cases.

Some services can be pretty thorough, including a detailed rundown of the subject’s criminal records, social media channels, and online profiles. Some background check firms even go a step further than the initial search and investigate the subject’s presence and activities on the Dark Web.

Cost of Background Checks

As you might expect, prices can vary widely from firm to firm as well. In general, the more complex the search is and the more detailed the results, the higher the fee will be. With unlimited access to deep and detailed searches covering several resources, the cost can be considerable.

Payment structures can also affect how much you will have to pay for background checks. Some companies offer monthly contracts at lower rates than their single-search offerings.

For example, you might have to pay around $30 for a single background check with basic information and no criminal record checks. But a month’s access to the company’s features and services–including unlimited searches–may only cost a similar amount. It is generally best to go with the monthly offer, as it will give you more time to perform a thorough search.

Reasons to Commission a Background Check

There are many reasons why companies and individuals may want to perform background checks on people.

The most common reason is to find out the person’s feasibility for a particular firm or position. Background checks are commonly performed by employers to learn more about certain employees.

Private individuals may also perform background checks on other people. Parents may want to look into the background of a new babysitter or caregiver, for example. Those who’ve connected with someone on an online dating site may want to know more about their potential match.

Most background checks are initiated to discover information that the subject may wish to conceal, whether it is a criminal or arrest history, or a track record of constantly being fired from jobs. Gaining access to these details can help you pinpoint the quality of an individual’s online reputation.

But such checks can also be done to discover innocuous information about a subject. For example, people tasked with updating an organization’s membership records may want to know the current contact details of a member. Some families may also want to determine if a long-lost relative is still alive.

How Long do Background Checks Take?

Most online background checks take only a few minutes to complete. In most cases, it takes longer to type in the required information, such as the name and known address of the subject.

The process is only slightly longer if you have to provide more information. You may also be requested to confirm the initial results, which typically takes only a few seconds.

Performing Self-Background Checks

Can you perform a background check on yourself? Of course! Not only can you do so, but it is actually advisable for certain reasons.

Let’s say you want to determine the effectiveness of a background check service before you shell out the money for full access. A good way to do that is by searching for your own background information as the results that come up will be easy for you to verify. You could also search social media from trusted friends’ or family members’ accounts.

You may want to perform a self-background check if you expect to be subjected to one in the near future. For instance, you may be curious‒or concerned‒about what a potential employer might find out about you. If so, getting detailed reports on yourself via self monitoring tools will allow you to rectify any unsavory details or prepare a suitable explanation in your defense. By conducting informal background checks on yourself, you’re taking steps to monitor your reputation online.

A self-background check also helps you detect errors or omissions in your public record. If you have taken your spouse’s last name or moved to another city, a background check on yourself will help you determine which records need to be updated.

When Running a Background Check Isn’t Advisable

Not all situations warrant having a background check done. There are situations when commissioning background reports on other people is inappropriate or even illegal.

For example, if you are a rental property owner, you aren’t allowed to use background check services to collect information about prospective tenants. Such a check also shouldn’t be used to determine a person’s eligibility for insurance or consumer credit.

Background checks for these purposes require the use of FCRA-compliant platforms. We will discuss the FCRA in more detail in the next section. But it essentially requires that background checks be conducted only with the consent of the individual being screened.

What if you need to check the background of a particular person for such purposes? In such cases, you will have to choose a background check service that is fully compliant with FCRA regulations.

How Does Your Information Show up on Background Check Sites?

Some background check services are remarkably thorough, and many people might be surprised at how much of their personal information is revealed in the results. In some cases, even addresses, phone number, social media data, and employment details from many years ago show up in a search, even if the subject has since moved to another part of the country and developed a lengthy employment record since then.

How does this information show up on a background check site? Much of this information is actually a matter of public record or available from a consumer reporting agency. This means that anyone has access to them with a bit of searching.

Community registers, court records, and employment rosters are often maintained online for anyone to see and most provide very reliable data. In some cases, information can even be obtained from a court runner service!

Some of the information on a particular person can be difficult to find. But some of the more established background check services employ sophisticated methods for unearthing them, and the technology is becoming more and more advanced over time.

So even if you think a person won’t find out that you worked in a particular company or lived in a certain small-town, don’t be surprised if that information shows up when other people conduct background checks on you.

What You Need to Know About the FCRA

In the age of social media, your in depth information might be available to background check services for the whole world to see. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that doing as many searches as you want to access that information is appropriate or legal.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a regulation that states that the information discovered via a background check service can’t be used to determine a person’s eligibility for employment, tenant screening for rental applications, and insurance, among other things.

This means that employers, insurers, and rental property owners may not use these services to screen prospective applicants. Doing so would be a violation of FCRA and result in legal consequences.

Some background check sites will have a disclaimer to this effect. You will likely be presented with a checkbox that you must check to signify your acknowledgment and agreement to FCRA restrictions.

Not all background check sites are FCRA compliant. If you need to conduct a thoroughly legal search, make sure to check if the site conforms to FCRA regulations. Most such sites tend to charge higher rates than others, so look into the pricing options before you conduct a paid search for a detailed report of people’s social media accounts.

Accuracy of Background Checks

How accurate are background checks? Sites can vary considerably in terms of accuracy, and price isn’t necessarily a reliable indicator of the results’ quality. Many background check services charge a premium for information that can easily be found with an online search. Others provide surprisingly in-depth results, criminal record reports, property records, and more up to date information for a modest fee.

The best background search services go to great lengths to provide accurate results. They employ sophisticated search methods and advanced technologies to find details on a person that can’t be found even with a deep dive into the search engines.

When choosing a background check service, read as many reviews and comments as possible from previous customers. Doing so will give you a good idea as to the quality of services provided by a firm and the accuracy of the results you can expect.

Background Checks and Guarantees

Unfortunately, relatively few background search sites provide any sort of guarantee. The quality of the results and the accuracy of the information aren’t always assured. This means that you might have to do further digging on your own to verify the information.

Some sites do offer a guarantee of accurate results, but they are in the minority. When in doubt, consider doing a trial search on yourself and assess the accuracy of the information presented in the results. Doing so should give you a good idea of the capabilities of the site in question.

Why Not Just Use Google?

Search engines such as Google have become remarkably powerful over the years. They employ increasingly sophisticated algorithms and advanced technologies to find information on pretty much anything from a bewildering array of sources, whether a consumer reporting agency, social media platforms, or public records.

Which brings to mind the question: why not just use Google to conduct a background check on a person?

As powerful and effective as it may be, all the information Google has access to–such as property ownership details and current phone number–are pretty much accessible from public records. Some of it might have been obscured over time and pushed back into the further pages of the search engine results pages, but they can still be found fairly easily.

To get the comprehensive results that you might need to check on a person’s criminal record or employment background, you will be better off with a dedicated background check service. Some of the better sites have access to civil registries, city records, police records, and employment histories that can’t be found on Google, social media, or an official consumer reporting agency without several hours of intensive searching.

Furthermore, the best background check companies offer unlimited background checks and present the information in a way that makes it easier for you to compare and verify results. Many also offer added services that make deep searches into a person’s background quicker and easier.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’ve performed a background check on yourself — or are worried a prospective employer, financial services group, or individual will find your personal details during a background check — we can help.

If you need help erasing your sensitive and personal information online, it’s time to take action. Contact us now and learn more about how to remove your information online with our proven background check service. Call 866-601-6803 and find out how to secure your data online.

 

What is the Best Background Check Site?

If you are looking for the best background check site, you’ve come to the right place.

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you can go to a background check site to look for criminal records and other important information about a potential hire.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act lets you employ the best background check service to do employment background checks, even looking at criminal records, for a potential new hire. When you’re creating background check reports, it’s important that you follow the legal and methodological legal process to run a background check.

Aside from someone’s basic info on social media, background check companies can run a background check to give you court records, employment verification, contact details, previous addresses, phone numbers, and sometimes even medical records.

Here’s an overall explanation of how to run a background check, what background check companies do, and how to run unlimited background checks.

What is a Background Check?

A background check is an investigative assessment used to verify a person’s character, identity, and other important personal characteristics. It is commonly used by employers, landlords, and other organizations to make sure that the person they are dealing with is trustworthy and reliable.

Background checks examine a person’s criminal record, credit history, and other personal information. The screening aims to uncover any red flags that indicate a person is not suited for a certain situation or role. It is a vital step in hiring, as it helps employers protect their businesses from potential risks.

In the United States, employers are required to follow certain procedures when running a background check. This includes obtaining the applicant’s written consent and providing them with a copy of the results. Employers must also adhere to privacy laws when obtaining and assessing this information.

Background checks are not limited to employers. Landlords, financial institutions, and other organizations may require applicants to undergo a background check. This is done to ensure they deal with trustworthy and reliable people.

Background checks are important to protect businesses and individuals from potential risks. Employers, landlords, and other organizations should always make sure they are running a thorough and compliant screening process before making a decision.

What are Background Check Services?

Background search services are becoming increasingly important in the modern world. With the rise of technology, it is easier than ever to access personal information about individuals. Companies, organizations, and individuals must have a way to verify the information they have obtained.

Background check services provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s past and present and allow employers and others to identify potential risks associated with hiring or allowing someone access to sensitive information.

These services verify an individual’s identity, address, education, and employment records. They can also uncover any criminal records or past financial issues. In some cases, a background search can also reveal an individual’s credit score, driving record, and professional license.

Background check sites are typically some form of data broker, which collects information from public records databases and other data sources.

Employers often use background checks to verify the information provided by an applicant. By conducting a background check, employers can better assess the risk of hiring an individual and make an informed decision about whether or not to move forward with the hiring process.

In addition to employers, other organizations and individuals may also use background check services. For example, landlords may use background checks to ensure that a potential tenant is financially responsible and has a clean criminal record. Volunteer organizations or non-profits can also use background checks to verify the identity of volunteers and financial institutions to verify the identity of customers.

These services are an important part of the modern world and provide individuals and organizations with an added layer of security. By verifying the identities and pasts of individuals, background search services can help protect employers, landlords, and other individuals from risks associated with hiring or allowing access to sensitive information.

A background check company gets your contact details, like phone numbers, address history, criminal reports, education history, arrest records, financial records, credit checks, and sometimes even drug testing results from social media accounts, civil court checks, public databases, and sometimes even the dark web. Court records and social media are only two of the many sources for a background check company.

How to Look for the Best Background Check Services

Finding the best background check services can be a daunting task. With so many companies offering background checks, it can be difficult to determine which ones are the best.

By following these tips, you can easily find the best background check services. Make sure to research your options thoroughly, determine the type of information you need, check for licensing and compliance, consider price, and look for additional features. With the right research, you can find the perfect background check service for your needs.

To make your search easier, here are some tips on how to look for the best background check services.

1. Research your options

Before deciding which background check service to use, it’s important to research your options thoroughly. Compare the services offered by different providers and read customer reviews. Pay close attention to the type of information the company provides and the accuracy of the results.

2. Determine what type of information you need

Different background search services offer different types of information. It’s important to determine what information you need before selecting a service. For example, if you’re looking for information about an individual’s criminal history, you may choose a service specializing in criminal background checks.

3. Check for Licensing and Compliance

When researching background check services, make sure to check for any licensing or compliance requirements. This will ensure that your selected service follows all applicable laws and regulations.

4. Consider Price

Price is an important factor when selecting a background check service. Make sure to compare the prices of different services to find the best deal.

5. Look for Additional Features

Some background search services offer identity verification or employment background checks features. These features can be useful depending on your needs.

What are the Best Background Check Services?

Background checks are becoming increasingly popular in today’s world. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire a new employee or an individual looking to find out more about someone, it’s important to have access to reliable background search sites. But with so many available, it can be hard to know which ones are the best.

These are just a few of the top background search sites. With so many available, deciding which one is best for you can be difficult. However, the sites listed above are reliable and provide detailed information, so you can be sure you’re getting the most accurate results.

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top background search sites.

GoodHire

GoodHire offers comprehensive background checks and is one of the most popular background search sites. It can provide information about past employment and education, verify a person’s identity and check for criminal records. GoodHire also provides access to various reports, including Social Security number verification, drug screening, and motor vehicle records.

PeopleLooker

This site offers a variety of search options, including reverse phone lookups, email address searches, and background checks. It also offers access to public records, such as criminal records, property records, and bankruptcy filings. PeopleLooker also provides access to social media profiles, so you can better understand who someone is online.

Intelius

Intelius is one of the largest background search sites in the world and provides comprehensive background checks. It offers detailed information on a person’s criminal, financial, and civil history and access to public records. Intelius also provides access to social media profiles and allows users to search by name, address, phone number, or email address.

BeenVerified

This site provides access to public records from all 50 states and can provide information on criminal records, bankruptcies, liens, and more. BeenVerified also offers reverse phone lookups and email searches, as well as access to social media profiles.

What Are The Different Types of Background Checks?

Background checks are an important part of the hiring process for employers, as they can provide valuable information about an applicant’s history and trustworthiness. Depending on the position a person is applying for, an employer may require a more thorough background search than usual.

These five background checks can provide employers with valuable information about an applicant’s past and character. This can help employers make more informed decisions regarding the hiring process.

Employers can use five different background checks to gain insight into an applicant’s past.

Criminal Check

This check examines the applicant’s criminal records, including misdemeanors and felonies. This can give employers a better idea of the applicant’s criminal data and whether or not they are suitable for the job.

Educational Check

This type of check looks into the applicant’s educational background. This type of background search looks into your stated education and validates whether what you have listed is true and that you have indeed gone to a certain school and your educational achievements are correct.

Employment History Check

This type of check looks into the applicant’s prior employment records. This can give employers a better understanding of the applicant’s qualifications and experience, which can help them determine if they are the right fit for the job.

Credit Check

This check looks into the applicant’s credit score and history to determine their financial trustworthiness. This can be beneficial for employers looking for someone responsible with money.

Reference Check

This check looks into the applicant’s references to see what former employers, teachers, and other professionals think of them. This can be beneficial for employers who want to get a better understanding of the applicant’s character and work ethic.

How to Perform a Criminal Background Check

Do you need to perform a criminal background search on someone? Whether you’re an employer, a landlord, or someone looking to hire a contractor, it’s important to know the criminal history of the people you’re dealing with.

By following these steps, you can perform an effective criminal background search on an individual. It’s important to be thorough in your search and take all the necessary steps to ensure that you have accurate and up-to-date information. This will help you make the best hiring decision, renting, or contracting with an individual.

Here’s how to do a criminal background search on an individual.

1. Start with the Internet. Start with a Google search of the person’s name, city, and state. This should give you a good starting point. You can also search for court records through local, state, and federal court websites.

2. Check public records. Public records are available to anyone. Check the county recorders’ office for deeds, liens, and other civil records. You can also search court records for criminal proceedings on the individual in question.

3. Use a background check service. You can use a third-party background search service if you don’t have the time or resources to search public records. These services often provide a comprehensive search of public records, including criminal records.

4. Use the National Crime Information Center. The NCIC is a database maintained by the FBI that contains information on criminal records, including arrest records, convictions, and sex offenses. You may need to request access to use the NCIC.

5. Talk to local law enforcement. If you’re looking for more detailed information about an individual’s criminal record, you can contact the local police department. They may be able to provide more detailed information about the individual’s criminal history.

How to Perform an Educational Background Check

When hiring a new employee or deciding who to accept into your school, it’s important to perform an educational background search to ensure that they are qualified and have the credentials they claim.

By following these five steps, you can perform a thorough and comprehensive educational background search to ensure that the individual you’re hiring or accepting into your school is qualified and has the credentials they claim.

However, this process can seem daunting and overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. To help you out, here’s a brief guide on how to perform an educational background check.

1. Ask for credentials. The first step to performing an educational background search is to ask the individual for their credentials. This should include their diploma or degree, transcripts, and other relevant documents.

It’s also important to ask for additional documents that can help you verify your educational experiences, such as a letter from a former professor or an endorsement from a past employer.

2. Contact the school. Once you have the necessary documents, you should contact the school to obtain verification of the individual’s educational credentials. This can be done by email, fax, or phone, depending on the school’s preference.

When contacting the school, include the student’s full name and all other identifying information, such as their date of birth, social security number, or any other relevant information.

3. Check online resources. In addition to contacting the school, you should also check online resources to ensure that the individual is truthful about their credentials. This can include checking sites like LinkedIn or other professional networking sites and the individual’s social media accounts.

By doing this, you can get a better understanding of the individual’s educational background, as well as any possible red flags.

4. Check professional references. It’s also important to check the individual’s professional references. This can be done by asking the individual for the contact information of their former professors or employers and then contacting them to verify their educational credentials and experience.

This can help you ensure that the individual has the qualifications they claim.

5. Perform a background check. Finally, it’s important to perform a background search on the individual. This can be done by searching public records and checking the individual’s credit and criminal history. This can help you ensure they are trustworthy and have a clean record.

How to Perform an Employment History Background Check

An employment history background search is an important part of the hiring process. It helps employers to identify potential issues with a candidate’s work history, such as inconsistencies or gaps in employment. This is important for employers, as it allows them to make informed decisions about who they hire. Using the best background check site helps ensure the accuracy of information you discover about prospective candidates.

These five steps will help you perform a thorough employment reports background check. It’s important to have a complete picture of the candidate’s work history to make an informed hiring decision.

If you’re an employer, here are five steps you can take to perform an employment history background check:

1. Start with the candidate’s resume. Review the candidate’s resume carefully to ensure the dates of employment are accurate and consistent. Look for any gaps in employment or positions that don’t match up with other information provided.

2. Contact former employers. Call or email the candidate’s former employers and ask for references and information about their employment reports. Make sure to ask specific questions such as job title, dates of employment, and duties.

3. Check for discrepancies. Compare the information background section provided by the candidate with the information provided by their former employers. Look for any discrepancies or inconsistencies in the information.

4. Run a criminal background check. A criminal background search is a good way to verify the candidate’s honesty and integrity. Check local, state, and federal records to ensure the candidate has a clean criminal record.

5. Verify education and credentials. Contact their educational institutions to verify their degree or credentials. This is important for certain positions, such as a doctor or lawyer, where specific credentials are required.

How to Perform a Credit Background Check

As a business owner, conducting a credit background check on potential employees is important to ensure you find the best-suited individuals for the job. A credit background search can provide valuable insight into an applicant’s past financial behavior and credit worthiness.

By following these five steps, you can ensure that you properly perform a credit background search and make an informed decision about a potential employee. It’s important to remember that you must follow all legal guidelines when conducting a credit background check, so it’s best to consult with a legal expert if you have any questions.

While it’s important to follow all legal guidelines when conducting a credit background check, it’s essential to understand the process and the five steps you need to take to perform a credit background search properly.

1. Obtain the applicant’s written consent. Before conducting a credit background check on an applicant, you must obtain their written consent. This is required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and should include language that specifies the purpose of the credit background check and the applicant’s right to dispute any information in the report.

2. Order the credit background check. Once you have the applicant’s written consent, you must order the credit background search from a reputable credit reporting agency. A credit background check is more comprehensive than a credit report, so it’s important to ensure you order the correct type of report.

3. Review the report. Once you have received the credit background check, you will need to review it thoroughly. It would be best to look for any negative information, such as late payments, bankruptcies, or collections, that could indicate the applicant is not financially responsible.

4. Notify the applicant. In writing, you must notify the applicant if the credit background check reveals any negative information. The notification should include a copy of the report and information on how the applicant can dispute any incorrect information.

5. Decide. After you have reviewed the credit background check, you will need to decide whether or not to hire the applicant. If the applicant has any negative information on their report, you may need to make a decision based on how that information impacts their ability to perform the job.

How to Perform a Reference Background Check

Are you looking to hire a new employee or tenant? If so, it’s essential to perform a reference background check for the individual. A reference background check will help you to make sure that the potential employee or tenant is trustworthy and reliable.

Performing a reference background check is an important step for any hiring or tenant screening process. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you hire or rent to the right person. Make sure to follow all the steps and keep accurate background check records.

Here are the five steps you should take to perform a reference background check.

1. Gather information. The first step is to gather the information you need to perform the background check. This includes the individual’s full name, address, and contact information.

You should also collect their social security number, if possible. Look for documents that provide information about the individual and verify the accuracy of the information.

2. Perform a criminal background check. The next step is to perform a criminal background check. You can do this by contacting the local police or sheriff’s office. You can also use a service that provides criminal background checks. Make sure to look for criminal convictions or pending cases against the individual.

3. Check credit history. Another important step is to check the individual’s credit history. You can use a service that provides credit reports. Make sure to look for any delinquent payments or defaults on debts. You should also look for any bankruptcies or foreclosures.

4. Contact references. After completing the first three steps, you should contact the individual’s references. Ask questions about the individual’s character, work ethic, and past jobs. Ask if any of the references have negative feedback about the individual.

5. Compare information. The last step is comparing the information you gathered from the best background check site. Check to make sure that all of the information is accurate and consistent. If there are any discrepancies, contact the individual and ask for clarification.

Why You Should Remove Your Information from a Background Check Site

Are you concerned about your personal information being accessible on background search sites? You should be. Background check sites can make your personal information—including your address history, criminal record, and even financial information—available to anyone with an internet connection.

Removing your information from background search sites is important in protecting your privacy and security. It’s easy to do—simply contact the site and request that your information is removed. Doing so will help ensure that your personal information remains secure and out of the hands of criminals.

It’s a major privacy risk and can leave you vulnerable to identity theft, fraud, and other malicious activity. Removing your information from background check sites is important; here’s why.

Protect your privacy. Your personal information should remain private. But when it’s available on background check sites, anyone can access it. That means your information can be used for malicious purposes, like identity theft or fraud. Removing your information from background search sites ensures that it remains private and out of the hands of criminals.

Reduce your risk of identity theft. Identity theft is a growing problem; criminals increasingly use background check sites to access personal information. Removing your information from these sites can reduce the risk of criminals accessing your personal data and using it to commit fraud.

Improve your security. Background check sites can also access financial information, such as your bank account and credit card numbers. Removing your information from such sites helps ensure that your financial information remains secure. Monitoring data broker sites can help you spot problems before they put your privacy at risk.

Avoid unwanted contact. Background check sites can also access contact information, such as your phone number and address. This can lead to unwanted contact from telemarketers or other unwanted solicitors. Removing your information from background search sites can help ensure that you don’t receive such unwanted contact.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’ve performed a background check on yourself and find that the data available violates your privacy or endangers your security, you should take measures to erase it from the surface and dark web. Scrubbing your data from the web is complicated and requires much effort and expertise.

If you need help erasing your sensitive and personal information online, it’s time to take action. Contact us now and learn more about how to remove your information online with our proven background check service. Call 866-601-6803 and find out how to secure your data online.

 

 

How Can I Run a Background Check on Myself?

If you’re wondering how to run a background check on yourself, you’ve come to the right place.

Companies usually do employee background checks before hiring someone, so it’s only fair that you do an online background check on yourself. When you do an online background check, you can see what a business sees when they do a pre-employment background check.

A background check is a great way to know what a business will see before applying to a company. This way, you can explain certain employment history points or details on your background report that don’t seem too flattering.

Doing employee background checks online is a good way to prepare for an interview or application. Learn about completing employee background checks on yourself to see your background report.

Why You Should Do a Background Check On Yourself

More and more people are running their own background checks to ensure accuracy, protect their identities, and ensure they’re not missing any critical information. Here are ten reasons why you should run background checks on yourself.

1. Check Your Name and Address

Background checks can help you verify your name’s and address’s accuracy and ensure they are up-to-date. If there are any inaccuracies, you can take steps to correct them right away.

2. Protect Your Identity

Background checks can help you protect your identity by checking for any incorrect or outdated information that could be used to steal your identity.

3. Check Your Employment History

Background checks can help you verify the accuracy of your employment history to ensure you’re accurately representing yourself to potential employers.

4. Check Your Credit

Background checks can help you review your credit report and ensure no errors or discrepancies could negatively impact your credit score.

5. Investigate Potential Fraud

A background check can help you investigate any potential fraud or identity theft that may have occurred.

6. Check for Criminal Records

A background check can help you identify any criminal records associated with your name.

7. Check Your Education History

A background check can help you verify the accuracy of your education history, including any awards or certifications you’ve earned.

8. Check Your Professional Licenses

A background check can help you verify the accuracy of any professional licenses you may have, such as a medical license or security license.

9. Check Your Driving Record

A background check can help you investigate your driving record and ensure it is accurate and up-to-date.

10. Check for Legal Problems

A background check can help you identify any legal problems associated with your name, such as outstanding warrants or civil judgments.

Running a background check on yourself is important to protect your identity, verify your records’ accuracy, and ensure you’re not missing any critical information. By taking the time to run a background check on yourself, you can ensure that you accurately represent yourself to potential employers and protect yourself against any potential problems that may arise.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act

The reason why the Fair Credit Reporting Act is very important is that it is an act that wants to ensure that accurate information is given about a person. The ultimate reason why a background check is very important in terms of employment verification is that it gives you a chance to find certain inaccuracies in the reports.

If you find details wrong with your employment background checks, you can report it to the agency under the Act to ensure that your employment background checks do not include false information about yourself.

Some people do a background check of themselves regularly to find if there is new information added to their profile that is false. Do a background check and find false information. You can report it to the consumer reporting agency or the background check company and ensure that your background check data is correct by federal law.

The background check process is very straightforward, and once you learn how to conduct background checks, you can routinely know what your potential employer will say during their hiring process. A background check provider also reports any civil records and sometimes credit reports or credit history, depending on the purpose of the background check.

What are the Different Types of Background Checks?

Generally, there are different types of background checks. When you say background check, you are referring to one of many types of background checks.

Background checks are an important part of the hiring process, and there are several types of background checks employers can use to ensure they are hiring the right person for the job.

Here, we’ll explore the different types of background checks and their purpose.

Criminal Background Checks

Criminal background checks are used to uncover an individual’s criminal history. Employers can use this type of background check to determine if a candidate has a criminal record and to assess whether or not they should be hired.

Employment Verification

Employers use this type of background check to verify the accuracy of an individual’s history of employment. This helps employers ensure that the information they have been provided is accurate and that the candidate is honest about their work experience.

Education Verification

This type of background check is used to verify the accuracy of an individual’s educational history. This helps employers ensure that the information they have been provided is accurate and that the candidate is honest about their educational background.

Reference Checks

Employers often use this background check to speak with individuals who have previously worked with or know the candidate. This helps employers to gain insight into the candidate’s work ethic and character.

Credit History

This background check is used to check an individual’s credit history. Employers may use this check to assess an individual’s financial stability and responsibility.

Drug Testing

This background check is used to determine if an individual has a history of using drugs. Employers may use this type of check to ensure that they are hiring individuals with no history of substance abuse.

Background checks can be an invaluable tool for employers in the hiring process. By using the appropriate type of background check, employers can gain insight into a candidate’s past and make sure they are making the right hiring decision.

How Can I Do a Background Check on Myself?

Performing background checks on yourself is an important step in understanding how potential employers, landlords, and other individuals may view you. A background check is a way to get a comprehensive look at your public records, including criminal and financial history. Knowing what information is being reported about you can help protect your reputation and ensure you’re not being misrepresented.

Here is a step-by-step guide to performing background checks on yourself.

Step 1: Start with Your Credit Report

Your credit report is one of the most important elements of background checks. It includes information about your credit history, including current and past debts, payment histories, and public records. You can obtain a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year.

Step 2: Obtain Your Criminal History

Your criminal history is another important piece of information that can be obtained through background checks. Depending on where you live, you can obtain a copy of your criminal record from the state or federal government. This will include any arrests, charges, or convictions you have on record.

Step 3: Look Up Your Driving Record

Your driving record is another important element of background checks. It includes any traffic violations, accidents, or other incidents that have been reported. You can obtain a copy of your driving record from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

Step 4: Check Your Employment History

Your employment history is another important element of a background check. It includes any past and current employers and any job-related information such as job titles, dates of employment, and salary history. You can obtain a copy of the history of your employment from the Social Security Administration.

Step 5: Research Your Educational Background

Your educational background is another important element of background checks. It includes any schools you have attended and any degrees or certifications you have earned. You can obtain a copy of your educational background from the National Student Clearinghouse.

Step 6: Search Public Records

Public records are another important element of background checks. They include any legal documents or court proceedings filed in your name. You can search for public records online or in person at the county clerk’s office.

Step 7: Use an Online Background Check Service

You can use an online background check service to obtain all of the information from your background check in one comprehensive report. These services can provide you with a comprehensive report that includes all the information mentioned above.

Performing a background check on yourself is an important step in understanding how potential employers, landlords, and other individuals may view you. By following the steps outlined above, you can be sure that you’re getting a comprehensive look at your public records and can make sure that you’re not being misrepresented.

Tips on Dealing with Bad Background History

Having a bad background can be detrimental to your life. Whether it’s an employer, landlord, bank, or school, they all have a way of accessing your background. If you have a bad background, there are many steps you can take to fix it. Let’s look at the top ten things you can do to fix your bad background after you run a background check on yourself.

1. Get a copy of your background check.

The first step to fixing your bad background is to get a copy of your background check. This will give you an idea of what potential employers, landlords, banks, and schools may see when they look up your background.

2. Dispute Inaccuracies.

Once you have your background check, you should look for anything inaccurate or outdated. If you find something that you disagree with, you should contact the reporting agency to dispute it.

3. Take advantage of expungement.

Depending on your state laws, you may be able to have certain items on your background report expunged. This means they will be removed from your report and will no longer be visible to potential employers, landlords, banks, and schools.

4. Pay any outstanding fines or fees.

If you have any outstanding fines or fees, it’s important to take care of them as soon as possible. This will help to improve your background and show potential employers, landlords, banks, and schools that you are taking responsibility for your actions.

5. Participate in community service.

Doing community service is a great way to demonstrate that you are a responsible citizen and are willing to give back to your community. Participating in community service can also be a great way to improve your background.

6. Take classes or get certified in something.

Taking classes or getting certified in something can help to demonstrate your commitment to learning and self-improvement. This can also be a great way to show potential employers, landlords, banks, and schools that you can learn new things.

7. Write a letter of apology.

Writing a letter of apology to anyone you may have wronged in the past is a great way to indicate your remorse and show that you are committed to change.

8. Seek professional help.

If you have any mental or emotional issues, it’s important to seek professional help. This can help you better understand yourself and your actions and learn how to better handle difficult situations in the future.

9. Get a mentor.

Having a mentor is a great way to learn from someone with experience and get advice on improving your background.

10. Be patient.

Finally, it’s important to remember that repairing your bad background will take time. Be patient and consistent in your efforts; eventually, you will be able to improve your background and put it behind you.

Fixing your bad background is possible, but it will take time and effort. Don’t give up! Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your background and making a positive impression on potential employers, landlords, banks, and schools.

Despite a bad background, there are still ways to make up for your history.

Contact EraseMugshots Today

If you’re having trouble when you run a background check and don’t know which parts can be adjusted and how to improve it, you need professional help. Our team specializes in running background checks and disputing inaccuracies that could potentially damage your reputation. We also have experience in expungement for certain records that can otherwise be erased.

If you need help getting damaging info off your background checks, contact us now! We have a team dedicated to removing negative content about our clients. Call us at 866-601-6803 for a free consultation on how to fix your background check results.

 

Why Do Celebrities Smile in Mugshots?

Why do celebrities smile in mugshots posted online? Learn everything you need to know about mugshots in our entertaining guide below.

Celebrity mugshots are often referred to as a dark part of a person’s past, but smiling mugshots are not always that popular. Smiling celebrity mug shots are rare but stand out among the rest.

If you’ve seen smiling mugshot stock pictures of celebrities, there could be different reasons why they are smiling in their celebrity mugshots.

Sometimes these celebrity mugshots come after a figure is spotted resisting arrest or is under the influence. Some of the funniest celebrity arrest photos or sexiest celebrity mugshots come from actors and actresses smiling in mugshots.

Let’s look at the reasons behind popular mug shots.

What Are Mugshots?

Mugshots are a fundamental part of the criminal justice system. They have been used for centuries but have become increasingly popular recently. Mugshots are photographs taken of a person when they are arrested and booked into jail.

Infamous celebrity mugshots sometimes include cute mugshot model photographs where celebrities are fought smiling in mugshots. Aside from actors or actresses smiling in mugshots, the most infamous celebrity mugshots are embarrassing celebrity mugshots where the celebrity is seen in an unflattering manner.

The mugshot is an important part of a criminal record and is used to identify an individual who has been arrested. A mugshot serves as a physical record of a person’s criminal history. It records the person’s arrest and booking into a jail or prison.

It also contains information about the individual’s name, date of birth, and physical description. Mugshots are often used to aid in identifying a suspect when a crime is committed. In addition to providing a visual record, mugshots also give police officers a way to identify suspects quickly.

This can be especially helpful in cases where a suspect is unknown or has changed their appearance. The media also use mugshots to identify criminal suspects who have been arrested.

Sometimes even the infuriatingly smug mugshot is an important part of the criminal justice system. They provide a visual record of a person’s criminal history and are useful for law enforcement. They can also help to provide a sense of closure to victims of crime by giving them a face to put to their perpetrator. Finally, they can be used in background checks to see if a person is who or what they say.

Why Do Celebrities Smile in Mugshots?

Mugshots are a vital part of the criminal justice system, but they’re also one of the most fascinating glimpses into the lives of celebrities. While most of us will never see the inside of a jail cell, celebrities are not immune to the law and have their celebrity mugshot taken when they get arrested.

While some famous faces show distress in their famous mugshot, others still smile.

Here are the five reasons why celebrities might smile in their famous mugshot:

To Put on a Brave Face

Celeb mug shots are a highly public and personal moment, and while a celebrity may be embarrassed or scared, they know that millions will see the photo of people. The most famous celebrity mugshot gives them a chance to show the world they are still in control and not afraid.

To Own the Moment

Even though celebrities may be in a tough spot, smiling in their mug shot allows them to take ownership of the moment. By smiling, they show that they are not ashamed or embarrassed by their situation and are still in control.

To Show Confidence

Smiling in a mug shot can be a way for a celebrity to project confidence and strength even in a difficult situation. It can show that they are not intimidated by their circumstances and are still in control of their image and career.

To Show Humor

Some celebrities will smile in their mugshots to show they can still find humor in the situation. Smiling can take the edge off a difficult situation and show the world that they have a sense of humor even in tough times.

To Make a Statement

Finally, some celebrities may choose to smile in their mugshots to make a statement. It can be a way of showing the world that they are not defeated and that they can still be optimistic even in the face of adversity.

No matter why a celebrity chooses to smile in their mugshot, it can be a powerful reminder that even when things look their darkest, there is still hope. Smiling in the face of adversity is a great way for celebrities to show the world that they are still in control and can still find the positive in any situation.

Examples of Popular Smiling Mugshots

Sometimes the worst celebrity mugshots capture a critical moment in the person’s life. These include crime boss Al Capone, a depression-era American gangster, being caught and decided to smile in his scary mugshots, giving a severe charges grin.

Other times, it could be a celebrity drunk driver smiling after a wild night or popular people facing criminal accusations. An example of popular police mugshots is Justin Bieber’s mugshot, where he was smiling, or Lindsay Lohan, who was slightly smiling.

Some people consider Lindsay Lohan and her famous mugshots as examples of celebrities smiling. Others say that her stylish mugshot showed her lack of care, maybe even pride, when she was caught.

Pros of Celebrity Mugshots

Celebrities are often seen as larger than life, and their mugshots can seem like a rare glimpse into their private lives. But, despite the media attention and public scrutiny that comes with it, there are some benefits to celebrities having mugshots. Believe it or not, a mugshot doesn’t necessarily make you a criminal.

Here are five of the pros of celebrities having mugshots:

1. Public Awareness

Celebrities having mugshots can be a great way to raise public awareness about important issues. For example, when actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested for public drunkenness in 2017, he famously used his mug shot to promote the anti-drunk driving campaign #DontDrinkAndDrive.

2. Personal Growth

Mugshots can be a powerful reminder for celebrities to take ownership of their actions and learn from their mistakes. Many celebrities have used their mugshots to reflect on their past and make positive life changes.

3. Humanizing Celebrities

Although many celebrities are seen as larger than life, their mugshots can help to humanize them and remind fans that they are just like anyone else. In essence, an embarrassing mugshot may actually improve the brand visibility of celebrities, depending on the circumstances that led to the arrest or booking photo.

4. Positive Role Models

Celebrities can be role models for others, and their mugshots can remind them to stay on the right path. Seeing celebrities make mistakes and take responsibility for their actions can be a powerful example of how to handle difficult situations.

5. Increased Transparency

Celebrities having mugshots can also help to create more transparency between celebrities and their fans. Seeing what their favorite stars have gone through makes, fans feel more connected to them.

Overall, there are many pros to celebrities having mugshots. From increased public awareness to creating positive role models, mugshots can help to humanize celebrities and create more transparency between them and their fans.

Cons of Celebrity Mugshots

Celebrities are often idolized and adored by millions of fans around the world. However, some celebrities have also made headlines for having their mugshots taken. While it’s true that everyone deserves a second chance, there are some serious drawbacks to celebrities appearing in mugshots.

Here are five cons of celebrities having mugshots:

1. Public Humiliation

Being arrested and having your mug shot taken can be a humiliating experience for anyone, but for celebrities, it can be even more embarrassing. Taking your mug shot can be seen as a sign of failure, and it can be difficult for celebrities to escape the public scrutiny that comes with having their mugshots released.

2. Damage to Reputation

A celebrity’s mug shot can have long-lasting effects on their reputation and career. Even if a celebrity is able to overcome their legal trouble successfully, the mug shot can still be used to cast doubt on their character. A mug shot can also be used to tarnish the reputation of a celebrity who has committed no crime. Smart celebrities use reputation monitoring tools to keep track of their online presences.

3. Adverse Reactions from Fans

Fans of celebrities often take a personal interest in their favorite stars and may be extremely disappointed to see them in a mugshot. This can lead to negative reactions from fans, such as boycotting the celebrity’s work or refusing to support them.

4. Loss of Opportunities

Having a mugshot can make it difficult for a celebrity to find work in the entertainment industry. Studios and networks may be hesitant to hire a celebrity who has been arrested and had their mugshot released. Consequently, a mugshot can limit a celebrity’s career opportunities.

5. The Stigma

Even when a celebrity can overcome their legal trouble and continue their career successfully, there can still be a lingering stigma attached to having their mugshot released. This can lead to negative public perceptions of the celebrity, which can be difficult to overcome.

All in all, having your mugshot taken can have serious consequences for celebrities. While everyone deserves a second chance, celebrities with mugshots should be aware of the potential impacts that their mugshots can have on their reputation and career.

Should You Smile in Your Mugshot?

Mugshots are a form of identification commonly used by law enforcement to document a person’s appearance after arrest. While some mugshots may appear to be a picture of a person in a happy mood, grinning for the camera, the reality is that they are often serious and solemn affairs. So, should you smile in a mugshot?

The answer to this question is a resounding no. It’s important to remember that a mugshot is not a “glamour shot”; it’s intended to be a neutral and accurate representation of a person’s physical appearance at the time of the crime.

Smiling may give the impression that an individual is unrepentant or unbothered by their current situation. This could be seen as disrespectful to law enforcement and show a lack of respect for the seriousness of the situation.

In addition, mugshots are often used in court proceedings and for identification purposes, and it’s important that the photograph accurately reflects the individual. A smiling mugshot could mislead a judge or jury into thinking that the individual is not taking the situation seriously or has little remorse for their actions.

Finally, it’s important to remember that mugshots are a permanent record. Once a photo is taken, it is uploaded and stored in databases that are accessible to the public. This means that anyone could see and interpret a smiling mugshot, regardless of the context in which it was taken.

In short, it’s important to remain solemn and respectful when posing for a mugshot. Smiling may give the wrong impression and could have an adverse effect on an individual’s case. For this reason, avoiding smiling and maintaining a serious expression when taking a mugshot is best.

When It Might Be Okay To Smile In Mugshots

Mugshots are usually serious, emotionless images of a person as part of their criminal booking process. But, surprisingly, it is okay to smile in your mugshot under certain circumstances. Here are five situations where it is okay to smile in your mugshot.

If you are arrested for a minor offense

The atmosphere may be more relaxed if you are arrested for a minor offense, such as a traffic violation or a misdemeanor. In this instance, it is okay to smile in your mugshot, as it shows that you are aware of the seriousness of the situation but not taking it too seriously.

If you are innocent

If you are innocent of the charges against you, you may feel relieved or even happy when you are arrested and taken to the station. In this case, expressing your feelings of joy and relief is perfectly acceptable by smiling in your mugshot.

If you are trying to be respectful

Smiling in your mugshot can also be seen as a sign of respect. It is okay to smile if you are showing respect to the officers taking your mugshot.

If you want to show a positive attitude

Smiling in your mugshot can show the world that you are a positive person, even in the face of adversity. Smiling is okay if you want to show that you are not letting the situation get you down.

If you are trying to be cooperative

If you are trying to be cooperative and show the officers that you are not a threat, smiling in your mugshot can show that you are willing to cooperate with them.

It is important to remember that smiling in your mugshot is not always seen as a positive thing. In some cases, it can be seen as mocking the situation or trying to be disrespectful. It is always best to consult with an attorney before deciding whether or not to smile in your mugshot.

The Negative Effects of Having Mugshots

Mugshots have long been a part of our criminal justice system. For years, mugshots have been used to identify suspects, provide evidence in court, and even give the public insight into the criminal justice process. But many people don’t realize that having mugshots can have serious negative effects on an individual’s life.

The most obvious issue with having mugshots is the stigma associated with them. Mugshots are widely seen as a sign of guilt and are often used in the media to portray criminals negatively. Having mugshots can also make it difficult for individuals to find employment, as potential employers may view them as untrustworthy or unreliable.

In some cases, mugshots may even prevent people from traveling abroad due to immigration laws. In addition to the stigma associated with mugshots, there are legal issues to consider. Having mugshots can make it difficult for people to convince a jury of their innocence in a criminal trial.

The jury may be biased against the individual due to the mugshots. Furthermore, mugshots can be used by prosecutors to try and paint a picture of the defendant as a criminal, regardless of the facts of the case.

Mugshots can also have a negative impact on an individual’s mental health. The shame and embarrassment associated with having mugshots can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Sometimes, this may even lead to suicidal thoughts. Having mugshots can have serious consequences, both legal and personal.

While they may be useful tools for law enforcement and the criminal justice system, they can also be detrimental to the lives of individuals. It’s important to be aware of the potential negative effects of having mugshots and to consider the long-term implications before making any decisions.

The Bottom Line

While mugshots can negatively affect your career or other aspects of your life, the good news is that there’s a way for certain mugshots to be removed from public records. While the law tries to protect those with certain records, experts must scrub your unwanted info off the web properly.

If you need experts to help you get your personal info off the web, contact us now! Call us at 866-601-6803 , and let’s discuss how to remove your sensitive info from the web safely.