The convergence of the post-9/11 security concerns and the online data revolution expanded access to reliable background checks beyond large corporations. Today, nearly 80% of all employers, big and small, perform some form of pre-employment background check on job applicants.

Pre-employment background checks must be conducted carefully and in compliance with privacy laws and regulations. This information, such as bankruptcies, workers' compensation claims and some criminal records data, are a matter of public record, while things like a credit history check require an applicant's written consent, per the Fair Credit Reporting Act.