What is blockchain and how does it benefit background checking

Beth Ritchie

26 Mar

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Blockchain is revolutionising the way we carry out transactions, as well as how we store and manage data, but what is it and how can we use it to benefit background checking?

Digitisation has made most business processes virtually unrecognisable compared to 75 years ago. Technology has now replaced paper and pen based accounts and records that businesses were formerly built on. But, despite the massive improvements in efficiency and accuracy, managing and storing data electronically introduced security issues which were not present with analogue record keeping.

Once something is written in pen and ink, it is difficult to modify it without leaving evidence of a change, but digital records are much easier to tamper with. This dilemma led to a massive growth in data security. Despite this, hackers use ever more creative ways to carry out crimes, and company data security is under constant the scrutiny of the public and media, as well as subject to increasingly strict legislation.

Blockchain presents a unique answer to the data security dilemma.

Described as a decentralised ledger, blockchain allows information (blocks) to be recorded by two parties and stored across a network of databases (chain). This ensures that records maintain their integrity because each block is dependent on the other blocks in the chain. With many computers attached to the network at the same time, any changes that are made would have to also change every single block in the chain, which would be virtually impossible without detection.

This also means that it is difficult for any one entity to own the data, and control of the data can be placed back in the hands of the consumer.

The efficacy of background checks is dependent on entirely accurate and up to date information, which means that creating records which are resistant to modification is crucial. Blockchain enables tamper proof data storage as well as consistently verifiable records.

Veremark uses blockchain technology to ensure secure and accurate records, which are collated to become a candidates Career Passport. This verifiable document contains the latest information about each candidate, their references, experience, and any checks which have been carried out. Candidates can then take their credentials and share access to their data with whoever they choose.

Blockchain has created a new opportunity in many sectors, and we at Veremark are proud to be leading the application of this exciting new technology in the background checking space.

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FAQs

What background check do I need?

This depends on the industry and type of role you are recruiting for. To determine whether you need reference checks, identity checks, bankruptcy checks, civil background checks, credit checks for employment or any of the other background checks we offer, chat to our team of dedicated account managers.

Why should employers check the background of potential employees?

Many industries have compliance-related employment check requirements. And even if your industry doesn’t, remember that your staff have access to assets and data that must be protected. When you employ a new staff member you need to be certain that they have the best interests of your business at heart. Carrying out comprehensive background checking helps mitigate risk and ensures a safer hiring decision.

How long do background checks take?

Again, this depends on the type of checks you need. Simple identity checks can be carried out in as little as a few hours but a worldwide criminal background check for instance might take several weeks. A simple pre-employment check package takes around a week. Our account managers are specialists and can provide detailed information into which checks you need and how long they will take.

Can you do a background check online?

All Veremark checks are carried out online and digitally. This eliminates the need to collect, store and manage paper documents and information making the process faster, more efficient and ensures complete safety of candidate data and documents.

What are the benefits of a background check?

In a competitive marketplace, making the right hiring decisions is key to the success of your company. Employment background checks enables you to understand more about your candidates before making crucial decisions which can have either beneficial or catastrophic effects on your business.

What does a background check show?

Background checks not only provide useful insights into a candidate’s work history, skills and education, but they can also offer richer detail into someone’s personality and character traits. This gives you a huge advantage when considering who to hire. Background checking also ensures that candidates are legally allowed to carry out certain roles, failed criminal and credit checks could prevent them from working with vulnerable people or in a financial function.