The use of credit reports  in background checks have been around for decades starting with  banks and financial service institutions  as a means to vet candidates who would be handling cash and have access to  sensitive information, such as social security numbers, account numbers and balances, as well as other bank assets.  The rationale was simple: if a candidate was experiencing difficulty managing their personal finances, then how effective could they be on the job in making leading or other financial decisions that might affect the company’s bottom line. Further, if the candidate was experiencing severe personal financial stress such as payment delinquencies, liens and collection activities, would it be prudent for the financial institution to hire and place such candidates in positions with access to cash and assets that might prompt dishonest behavior like theft or embezzlement? Continue reading →