In this modern age, cyber threats are a big concern for businesses. The risk of having company data stolen or destroyed is a reality. Human resources personnel have a large role in cybersecurity and in processes that prevent cyber theft or damage. Hiring new employees, monitoring existing employees, and having procedures set up for terminated employees go a long way in this effort.

It’s a Real Threat.
GlobalHR Research states a glaring statistic: “Nearly 60% of fired employees steal important corporate data after departing.” Heimdal Security states that “Cyber crime costs the global economy a staggering $100 billion every year.”

Human Resources Online maintains that human resources teams, along with IT professionals, play a crucial role in preventing cyber crime in businesses. Indeed, data that HR professionals possess is often the most at risk because it contains sensitive and private data, like social security numbers, health data, bank information, and home addresses.

This is in addition to company data that could be stolen and/or sold to competitors by employees. Employees could even put data in jeopardy unintentionally, if the proper system and procedures are not set. For one thing, software systems should be set up to prevent computer viruses and “phishing” for information by hackers.

How Can an Employee Background Check Help?
So how can a professional and experienced employee background check aid in the cybersecurity effort?

First off, a typical background check should be done for all employment applicants, which may include some or all of the following: Criminal Records Check (CORI), nationwide/statewide/international; Sex Offender Registry Check; Global Homeland Security Search; Education, Employment, and License Verifications; Employment History Check; Motor Vehicle Report; Reference Check; Credential Verifications; Form I-9 and E-Verify; Medicaid Sanctions (for healthcare workers); Credit Report; Social Security Number Scan/Trace; Workers’ Compensation History; and Employment Drug Screening.

It is important to mention that employee background checks should be conducted periodically even after employees are hired, to ensure that there is not any new, negative information.

Additional Cybersecurity Tips
After employee background checks are completed, HR should make sure that new employees have not brought any sensitive data or information with them from their previous place of employment. Furthermore, HR should have a policy of closing online accounts immediately for all employees who leave the company.

HR should work with IT to develop and distribute security procedure guidelines; train staff on cybersecurity practices; and make clear the disciplinary consequences for not adhering to security guidelines. 

Why Choose The Hire Authority for Your Background Screening?
Be safe, not sorry. At The Hire Authority we are thorough in our screening, which guarantees that you will receive information that is current and relevant. We care about your security and we will work to keep you safe from harm or unnecessary problems.

We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have and give you a quote. Call (508) 230-5901 or visit our website www.hireauth.com.

The foregoing should not be construed as legal advice. Employers should always consult their own legal counsel for advice on labor and employment matters.