In today’s digital hiring environment, verifying a candidate’s identity is more important than ever. With the rise of remote work, AI-generated resumes, and identity fraud, employers need to be confident that the person behind the application is who they say they are.
Luckily, background screening provides multiple tools to help confirm identity, forming a strong first line of defense against fraud and compliance risks.
Here are five reliable ways to confirm a candidate’s identity as part of the background screening process:
1. Government ID Verification
The first and most basic step is verifying a candidate’s government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. This helps confirm name, date of birth, and in some cases, address. But while important, this method alone can be vulnerable to fake or stolen documents which is why it should be paired with other checks.
2. Social Security Number (SSN) Trace
An SSN trace identifies names and addresses historically associated with a candidate’s SSN. It helps uncover aliases or inconsistencies in identity, and is often the starting point for criminal background checks. A mismatch here can raise important red flags early in the process and prompt deeper review.
3. Biometric Verification (with vID)
Biometric tools like vID go a step further by matching a candidate’s live selfie or facial scan to their ID photo, confirming they’re a match to the documents provided. It’s a powerful way to stop identity fraud before the screening even begins, especially for remote or hybrid roles where face-to-face validation isn’t possible.
4. Address History Validation
Verifying past addresses is another helpful identity checkpoint, especially when cross-referenced with job history and criminal jurisdiction searches. Address history helps ensure that the background check covers the appropriate locations and timeframes, leading to a more complete and accurate report.
5. Social Media Identity Review
While not used to judge character, public social media profiles can help confirm a person’s identity, employment history, and even basic location details. When used properly and compliantly, social media screening can validate that the candidate’s online presence aligns with the information provided on their application.
Why Identity Verification Matters
Mistaken identity, resume fraud, and intentional deception are growing risks in the hiring space. Confirming identity isn’t just about security, it’s about protecting your workplace, clients and employees.
When identity isn’t verified, the consequences can be severe. Negligent hiring claims, data breaches, workplace safety issues, or costly rehiring processes may be the result. Taking a layered approach to screening protects your organization from these avoidable risks.
Our Commitment to You
At GIS, we don’t just run background checks. We build customized solutions that protect your organization. From biometric identity verification to SSN traces and social media insights, we use advanced, compliant tools to confirm every candidate’s identity with diligence and care.
If you have any questions about identity verification or are interested in incorporating these tools into your screening process, please contact us.
