<Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The neutrality of this article is disputed . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page . Please do not remove this message until conditions to do so are met . (December 2016) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> A background check or background investigation is the process of looking up and compiling criminal records, commercial records, and financial records of an individual or an organization . </P> <P> Background checks are often requested by employers on job candidates for employment screening, especially on candidates seeking a position that requires high security or a position of trust, such as in a school, courthouse, hospital, financial institution, airport, and government . These checks are traditionally administered by a government agency for a nominal fee, but can also be administered by private companies . Background checks can be expensive depending on the information requested . Results of a background check typically include past employment verification, credit history, and criminal history . The objective of background checks is to ensure the safety and security of the employees in the organisation . </P> <P> These checks are often used by employers as a means of judging a job candidate's past mistakes, character, and fitness, and to identify potential hiring risks for safety and security reasons . Background checks are also used to thoroughly investigate potential government employees in order to be given a security clearance . However, these checks may sometimes be used for illegal purposes, such as unlawful discrimination (or employment discrimination), identity theft, and violation of privacy . </P>

What is the point of a background check