When it comes to background checks in Canada, there are several types available. Two primary methods are most commonly used to identify an individual’s criminal history: name-based and fingerprint-based checks. While both serve the purpose of ensuring safety and verifying an individual’s past conduct, they differ significantly in terms of accuracy, process, and application. Understanding these differences is crucial whether you’re applying for a job, housing, or a volunteer position of trust.
What is a name-based criminal record check?
A name-based criminal record check is a common process used to search for a person’s criminal history. By looking up a person’s name and other identifying information, such as their date of birth, authorities can determine if the individual has any past convictions or offenses. Because it doesn’t use fingerprints, this check is the fastest criminal background check in Canada. However, it is not acceptable for all requirements.
While this type of check is quick and convenient, it is not as precise as a fingerprint-based check, which is often considered more reliable. When name-based criminal record checks do not provide a definite way of confirming a person’s identity, you may be asked to provide fingerprints. It may delay the process of obtaining your background check.
How It Works
When a name-based check is conducted, the individual’s details are matched against national, state, or local criminal databases to determine whether they have any criminal records associated with that name.
Scope of Search
This check typically searches records from various law enforcement databases that store criminal records. However, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of this search can vary based on the quality of the databases, the jurisdiction, and whether the individual has used multiple aliases or names.
Limitations
The biggest issue with name-based checks is the potential for false positives or false negatives. Because names are not unique identifiers, there can be situations where two people share the same name or an individual has used an alias. As a result, this method may mistakenly link an individual to criminal records that don’t belong to them or fail to identify records that do.
Common Use
Name-based checks are generally used in situations where a broad, quick assessment is sufficient. They are often employed for employment screenings, tenant screenings, and volunteer background checks.
What is a fingerprint-based check?
A fingerprint-based criminal record check is the most thorough and reliable method of verifying an individual’s criminal history. This check relies on the unique patterns of an individual’s fingerprints, which are specific to each person. If a name-based check doesn’t confirm identity, fingerprints may be requested, as they are the most accurate method for confirming identity.
How It Works
During a fingerprint-based check, an individual’s fingerprints are captured and submitted to the RCMP. These prints are then compared to a central database of known criminal records. Since fingerprints are unique, they provide an exact match.
Scope of Search
Fingerprint-based checks can confirm whether a person has been arrested or convicted of any crimes, regardless of any aliases or name changes they may have used.
Accuracy
Because fingerprints are unique and biologically determined, this type of check is extremely accurate. There is virtually no risk of mistaken identity as long as the fingerprint data is properly collected and processed.
Common Use
Fingerprint-based checks are commonly required for high-security jobs, adoption processes, law enforcement positions, and any situation where the background check must be 100% reliable and detailed.
Difference between Name-based vs Fingerprint-based criminal record check
Accuracy
Fingerprint-based checks are far more accurate than name-based checks. Name-based checks can be prone to errors, particularly when common names are involved, while fingerprints are unique to every individual, virtually eliminating the possibility of misidentification.
Time and Cost
Name-based checks are generally faster and more affordable because they don’t require physical fingerprinting. On the other hand, fingerprint-based checks can take longer because they require more processing and verification, often involving government agencies, and can be more costly.
Depth of Search
Fingerprint-based checks can provide a more thorough background review. They can trace criminal records from various jurisdictions and even reveal records that may have been missed in a name-based search due to alias use or discrepancies in name spelling.
Applications
Name-based checks are typically used for non-sensitive positions and lower-risk environments. Fingerprint-based checks are more suitable for high-security roles, government positions, and other situations where a detailed, accurate criminal record check is critical.
Where to do
Name-based
If you need a name-based criminal record check, there are a few options available depending on your location. In Canada, for example, a name-based check can be requested through:
- Local Police Stations: Many police stations offer name-based criminal record checks for individuals, such as Peel Police, Toronto Police, Halton Regional Police, etc. … Be sure to contact your local station to confirm the process and requirements.
- Third-Party Providers: Several authorized third-party agencies are approved to perform name-based criminal record checks on your behalf. These providers often offer the convenience of online submissions and faster processing times.
Before applying, make sure you understand the specific requirements for the type of check you need and any supporting documentation you may need to provide.
Fingerprint-based
You can visit a fingerprinting company accredited by the RCMP to process your application for a certified criminal record check. Please note that accredited fingerprinting companies typically do not provide vulnerable sector checks. For a vulnerable sector check, it is necessary to visit your local police service.
At Frontier One, we offer assistance with fingerprint criminal record checks, which are conducted by the RCMP. We can take your fingerprints and electronically submit them to the RCMP on the same day. The RCMP then uses the applicant’s submission, often via the Live Scan digital fingerprinting process, to assess whether the individual has a criminal record.
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Frontier One proudly offers a wide range of fingerprinting services for obtaining a Criminal Record Check from Canada (RCMP), the US (FBI FD-258/FD-1164), and other countries (C-216C).
These checks could be required for various applications, including but not limited to Permanent Residency (in Canada and other countries), Canadian Citizenship, US Immigration, Employment, Pardon, Visa/Border Crossing.
Visit us at: www.f1fingerprint.ca or call us now for assistance.
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