Running background checks all started for me when a co-worker asked how she could do a free criminal background check on a guy she has her eye on. She had some suspicions about his past, and really didn’t want to date someone with a criminal record.

Since the guy has a very common name, I told her she really needed either the SSN or DOB (and preferably both) to check for criminal records, etc. I advised that she check the local courthouse for cases involving the guy and hope to pick that info up from a case file, then search each county that pops up on his address report, etc.

I seriously underestimated this girl! Instead of digging through court records, she just called his cell phone carrier and somehow got the operator to tell her the guys SSN! She wouldn’t tell me exactly what she said to get this info, but I really feel sorry for this poor guy if they ever become a couple! He won’t be able to get away with anything!

Since that humble beginning, I have made it my mission to urge everyone to take advantage of the vast public records resources available to make sure that they protect themselves and their family from dishonest criminals.

Take advantage of your local courthouse! They are the master repository for almost all of the critical componenets necessary for a complete background check. And best of all, access to the court records is free!  Make a friend with the criminal records clerk, bring a box of doughnuts in when you show up to check out the files!

Keep in mind that instant background checks often are not!  For example, a thorough employment background check will include previous addresses going back 20 years!  A criminal background check can go back even further, particularly if it’s done by the FBI.  Even with outstanding online instant access to people search and public records, searches of this depth can often take days or weeks to complete, so slow down and do it right!