My Account | Join Us

News Old

Keeping a Credit Score in Good Standing: Why Is It Essential?

Posted on by admin-vo

Although initially created to help businesses decide where to issue finance, credit checks have become integral to background screening when applying for jobs. They are also used for many other aspects of life, including buying a house or vehicle. As such, it is of the utmost importance that credit scores are maintained.

The following is an overview of why it’s essential to keep a credit score in good standing, as well as some measures that people can take to improve a credit score.

A Poor Credit Score Can Mean a Job Offer is Refused

Although a poor credit score doesn’t necessarily mean a person will be refused a role, there can be instances when this is the case. Some credit checks are carried out to verify a person’s identity, whereas others are used to assess the financial background of a job applicant.

Those applying for jobs where they are responsible for finances may be expected to have a good credit record. Defaults, missed payments, and CCJs present on a credit file could mean that people find it harder to secure a job role.

Low Credit Scores Could Mean Finding Accommodation is Problematic

A good credit score can make all the difference when applying for a mortgage, but this isn’t the only situation where finding accommodation is connected to background screening. Landlords also use credit checks when assessing the suitability of the tenant.

Landlords will not always refuse a lease when met with a poor credit score, but there could be a requirement to pay rent in advance.

Adverse Credit Can Make It Difficult to Open a Bank Account

Although a credit application isn’t part of all bank accounts, there can still be instances when a low score can mean a person cannot open a personal or business account. There will often be options available, but these can be more expensive. As such, those struggling to open a bank account should try to improve their credit score as soon as possible.

What Can Be Done to Increase a Credit Score?

Dealing with unpaid debt won’t instantly remove CCJS and defaults, but it is a good start when improving your credit score.

For some, it can seem that a credit score will never improve, and it can take as long as six years for a credit record to fully recover. However, the sooner steps are taken, the sooner a credit score will improve.

The following is an overview of some of the steps people can take to improve their credit scores.

  • Make payments on time.
  • Update electoral roll information.
  • Check credit reports for any errors.
  • Don’t make numerous credit applications.
  • Avoid payday loans.

In addition to making payments on time and maintaining debt in a positive way, it is advisable for people to review their credit file regularly.

ID Verification: What Checks Need to be Made?

Posted on by admin-vo

Although fake documentation is something companies must contend with, there can also be instances when genuine documentation has been tampered with. Many companies and organisations assume that having a human inspect documentation is enough, but unfortunately, this isn’t the case,

In addition to fraudulent documents looking closer to the real thing, there can also be instances when ID from another country needs to be verified. If people are not fully aware of how ID and paperwork should look, then it is difficult to ascertain their authenticity,

Fortunately, there are avenues available that are not faster at identifying documents but also more accurate. The following is an overview of how ID verification works and why it can be a better choice than manual checking alone.

How Does Online ID Verification Work?

In the past, some companies would ask for photographs of documentation, but this approach was easy to manipulate, and carrying out additional checks can mean applications take longer, dissuading some people.

Fortunately, the advancement of technology means that the verification method used to day is more complex than taking a simple photograph,

Although images are still used, the way they are checked ensures that any misalignment or unrecognisable features of the documents will be highlighted in as little as 30 seconds, making it more effective than manual checking alone.

After a document has been verified, users can download a certificate to show that the check has been carried out. This can be essential for businesses that must run several individuals’ background checks.

What Are Other Measures Taken When Confirming Someone’s Identity?

Online document verification is one part of the process when confirming someone’s identity, as liveness checks are also used. Liveness checks use the same process as document verification but will focus on the person instead.

There are two forms of liveness checks available, passive and active. Passive liveness checks ask users to take a selfie and will use this to match the profile against other documentation. An active liveness check will ask the user to carry out poses or motions to ensure the photographs or videos are genuine.

Whether an active or passive liveness check can depend on the circumstances. Passive liveness checks are often faster, allowing for a better user experience, but active liveness checks are considered more secure.

What Are The Benefits of ID Verification?

The benefits of ID verification will depend on the situation. For business, they can provide customers with peace of mind while offering a fast solution of confirming documents are genuine.

Using ID verification also ensures businesses, charities and other organisations meet industry standards and confirm a person’s Right to Work status.

However, there can also be instances when online document verification can benefit personal users. For example, those looking for a new job may use document verification to show prospective employers that all their documentation is genuine.

ID verification can also be carried out from multiple devices, meaning there are never any restrictions or delays when carrying out document verification and liveness checks.

Can a Poor Credit Score Affect a Job Offer?

Posted on by admin-vo

Searching for a job is easier than ever, thanks to the Internet and its wide selection of job boards and recruitment agencies. However, those searching for suitable candidates must ensure they find the right fit for a job role, meaning a series of background checks will often be needed.

One of the most common checks when applying for a job can be a credit check, but the type of credit search carried out can depend on the role. However, there will be instances when a poor credit score could mean an offer of employment is withdrawn.

Why Do Poor Credit Scores Affect Job Roles?

Many will have had some form of financial distress, which can be stressful and worrying. As such, not being able to work because of past problems can seem unfair, but there is a reason why poor credit scores deter an employer from offering candidates a job role.

Those applying for positions at banks or other financial institutions will often have to pass a credit check, showing the employer that you can manage money and that financial behaviour won’t impact your job role.

In the instances of a poor credit score, this could be seen as a risk to the business. This can be upsetting, but it’s important to remember that employers only see limited information, so it is rarely based on who you are as a character.

What Can Be Done to Improve a Credit Score?

Many will already know that their credit commitments play a big part in calculating their credit score. But other factors contribute, such as paying bills on time and being registered on the electoral roll.

To truly understand why you have a low credit score, you must obtain a copy of your credit record. Three primary agencies are used in the United Kingdom: TransUnion, Experian and Equifax.

All will use a different form of credit score, but each will contain information about missed payments, defaults and CCJs.

Once you know what information is affecting your credit score, you can then take measures to make improvements. For example, if there are defaulted payments, ensure all bills are paid by their due date. If there are CCJs on your credit file, make sure to pay them as soon as possible.

There will also be instances when credit reference agencies may hold incorrect information about your credit file. In these instances, it is advisable to verify your documents online when trying to improve your credit score, as this tells the credit reference agencies, they receive are genuine.

Although there is no requirement to have documents verified, it can mean mistakes on a credit file are rectified as soon as possible, which will improve your credit score.

Paying bills on time and paying CCJS won’t mean an instant improvement to your credit score. Knowing what to deal with means your credit score will improve over time, along with your job opportunities.

What Background Checks Are Needed for Teachers?

Posted on by admin-vo

Background checks are carried out in different ways depending on the job role. However, those working with children will be subjected to stringent background checks. The following is an overview of the assessments made when becoming a teacher and why they’re carried out.

Identity Check

The identity of the person applying for a position must be confirmed before accessing other services. When checking the identity of an individual, documentation like passports will need to be verified.

The fastest way to do this can be via a document verification service. In addition to checking identity documentation like passports, schools, colleges and universities can also use it to confirm correspondence is genuine.

Teacher Services

Teacher Services is free and can be accessed via the Department of Education. Teachers Services will record whether a teacher induction has been completed and check the qualified teacher status. Teacher Services will also record details regarding any sanctions or restrictions.

Schools and colleges can access the service using a Department of Education login. Those without an account can ask an approver to create one on their behalf.

Enhanced DBS Check

Although commonly referred to as a List 99 Check, the service is now known as the Children’s Barred List. The Disclosure and Barring Service maintains the list and details those who are not permitted to work with children.

Schools and colleges can access the information via an Enhanced DBS check, which will also provide details of other convictions.

Are All Background Checks Carried Out?

Unlike other industries where detailed background checks aren’t always required, those applying for a teacher role must be aware that all checks are carried out. If you’re unsure whether the information is correct, it can be worthwhile to carry out the relevant checks before applying for a position.

The Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (OFSTED) do not see the Enhanced DBS Checks for teachers when making an inspection, but it will need to see evidence that a check was carried out.

What If I’m a Private Tutor?

Parents and carers will always want to safeguard children, so private tutors will also be keen to show their credentials. Although this can be done, for the most part, carrying out an Enhanced DBS Check can be problematic.

When operating as a private tutor, many will operate via a private tutoring company that can complete Enhanced DBS Checks on their behalf, ensuring there are no limitations when applying for freelance positions.

What Barred Lists are Used in the United Kingdom?

Posted on by admin-vo

Barred lists are operated by the Disclosure and Barring Service and allow employers working with vulnerable people or children to check on applicants for a job position involving either. However, alternate names can be used for these checks, leading to confusion.

The following is an overview of the barred lists currently used in the United Kingdom, as well as some further steps that can be taken to protect the business in every instance.

What Is a List 99 Check?

The List 99 Check was operated by the Department of Education and Skills and detailed those banned from working with children. However, this was renamed the Children’s Barred List as part of the Education Act and is now operated by the DBS.

Although the term List 99 Check is still used, the check will be an Enhanced DBS that details whether the person is listed on either list.

How Many Barred Lists Are There?

There are two barred lists. The aforementioned Children’s Barred List and the Adult Barred List. The Adult Barred List contains names of those who cannot work with vulnerable adults.

How Are the Barred Lists Checked?

The Barred Lists can only be checked by carrying out an Enhanced DBS Certificate. This will include details of any recorded crimes, cautions, and whether the person is present on either barred list.

Are People Informed When Being Placed on the Barred List?

When a person is convicted of an offence that makes them a risk to children or adults, the DBS will write to the person notifying them. As such, many people should be aware if they are present on either barred list. However, they will not be able to carry out personal checks themselves.

Other Methods of Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults?

Carrying out an Enhanced DBS Check is the best way of checking if someone is a potential threat in a job role, but some other steps companies should take to ensure the business is safeguarded at all times,

When receiving documents from job applications, it is advisable to take advantage of online document verification. Although rare, there can be instances when fake documentation is used as a means of hiding past crimes.

Fortunately, using online document verification allows businesses to ensure all paperwork is legitimate and enjoy some additional peace of mind when hiring new people.

In addition to verifying passports, bank accounts and driving licenses, online document verification can also help streamline the hiring process.

Each check made regarding online verification can be completed in seconds, allowing businesses to filter out names that have made fraudulent applications or failed to mention their presence on a barred list.

What Checks Does a Landlord or Letting Agent Make?

Posted on by admin-vo

Although renting a property may seem straightforward, several checks are carried out before making a decision. These checks will depend on the landlord or letting agency but often involve the following.

Credit Checks

Although landlords will need permission to carry out a credit check, they are often part of housing applications. Although a good credit score is not essential, those with very low credit scores could find they are not suitable for some rental properties.

Guarantor Check

In instances of a low credit score, the landlord or letting agency will ask if a guarantor is available, who must be someone in ownership of their own home. If the person renting the property defaults on payments, then the responsibility will shift to the guarantor, which can be challenging to acquire in some instances.

Reference Checks

Those moving property will be asked to give their former landlords’ details. As with other checks, acquiring a reference ensures that letting agents and landlords can ascertain whether a tenant can maintain regular rent payments.

There can also be instances where candidates will need an employer’s reference to show that a job role listed is genuine and is not likely to end soon.

Identity Check

Identity checks are another standard part of renting a property, but landlords and agencies can carry out a series of checks to ensure documentation is genuine. Despite the advanced methods of fraud, more sophisticated means of identifying fraudulent documents ensure that fraud is minimised.

Online document verification is a fast and easy process that allows landlords and letting agencies to ascertain authenticity in as little as 30 seconds. As well as working with Government-issued documents, it can also be used to identify genuine letterheads and over 4000 documents globally.

Right to Rent Check

Letting agencies and landlords ask for a copy of a passport allows them to check whether the person is eligible to work in the United Kingdom. If there is no passport but you have a biometric residence card, then this can be used instead.

Those waiting for an immigration decision without documentation can also request the Home Office to carry out a Right to Rent Check. Responses are typically received in two working days but can take longer in some instances.

Will All Checks Be Carried Out by Letting Agents and Landlords?

How many checks are carried out will depend on the letting agent or landlord, but those wanting to rent a property should ensure that all information is up to date. If you still need some information, you should speak to the landlord or letting agency to discuss the issue to see if any alternative documentation can be accepted.

Those wishing to rent can also take advantage of document verification to speed up rental applications. After the documents have been verified online, users will be given a certificate which shows landlords and letting agencies the paperwork is genuine.

Why Liveness Checks Are Essential

Posted on by admin-vo

There have always been active checks to ensure that documentation is authentic, but the complex methods used in creating false documents can mean they’re difficult to tell apart from the real thing.

What Are Liveness Checks?

Liveness checks ensure that a person attempting to register or purchase a product or service is genuine and the process does not have fraudulent intent. Liveness checks are often part of online identity and background checks and can be essential in several ways.

How a liveness check is carried out can depend on the business and the product or service it offers, but it will aim to verify the identity of a person as well as any documentation.

Focus on Genuine Customers

Although there are several benefits to conducting business online, many risks must be considered. Despite online fraud becoming more complex, so too have the defences in place, and liveness checks are the perfect example of this.

Validating an individual’s identity was possible in the past, but it was often time-consuming, meaning that attention would usually be taken away from genuine customers.

Liveness checks use complex algorithms and human interaction to ensure online identities are not compromised while meeting the expectations of genuine customers.

Speed Up Credit Applications

How a customer pays for a purchase can depend on several factors, and there will be instances when credit is an option. Similarly, several fintech companies provide credit as part of their business model, so an efficient, secure signup method is essential.

Liveness checks have become a standard part of credit applications and can allow businesses and financial institutions to clarify a person’s identity without having to forward several forms of identification.

Of course, there will still be times when documents must be verified but using a professional verification service ensures that any additional background checks do not have to extend the credit application process.

Develop Stronger Relationships with Customers

One of the most frustrating aspects among online customers is the lack of security. However, having a stringent process like liveness checks in place ensures customers are given confidence that the business takes the protection of their security seriously.

Although security checks have hindered customers’ online experience, liveness checks are fast, secure, and one of the best ways to determine who a person is who they say they are.

Customers Can Carry Out Liveness Checks Easily

Those who have applied for a bank account online may have been asked to forward a selfie. Although this can be concerning for some, it is part of a liveness check and only takes a few seconds to complete

Furthermore, anything needed to complete the process will often be contained within the device they own, regardless of whether it uses the iOS or Android operating system.

Whether they are visiting the website or a dedicated app, customers can carry liveness checks out quickly by taking a selfie and then uploading copies of documentation like a driving licence or passport.

Once all the checks have been completed, customers can activate their service within minutes instead of weeks, allowing for more conversions among customers.

What Is a Good Credit Score?

Posted on by admin-vo

Credit can be essential for many people, but why do some people find it easier to obtain credit than others? The answer lies typically within their credit score. However, many believe there is only a good or bad credit score, but this isn’t the case.

Although high credit scores are viewed favourably, this does not mean that those with a lower credit score have no options available to them.

The following is an overview of how credit scores are generated and how credit facilities can vary depending on the score.

Credit Scores Vary Between Agencies

Many assume that all credit scores are the same, but they can vary between credit reference agencies. The following is an overview of the ranges used by credit reference agencies when determining a score.

Experian

  • Fair: Between 721 and 880
  • Good: Between 881 and 960
  • Excellent: Between 961 and 999

Equifax

  • Fair: Between 380 and 419
  • Good: Between 420 and 465
  • Excellent: Between 466 and 700

TransUnion

  • Fair: Between 566 and 603
  • Good: Between 602 and 627
  • Excellent: Between 628 and 710

What Credit Facilities Are Available Based On My Credit Score?

Credit facilities are often available for all scores, but the difference can be in the amount loaned and the interest paid. For example, those with a fair credit score could still acquire a credit card, but it would have a lower credit limit and higher interest than if it was for an excellent credit score.

If your credit score falls below the ranges above, then obtaining credit could be difficult, so you must make efforts to improve your credit score and make corrections if needed.

What If I Find Incorrect Information on My Credit File?

Although it is rare for a credit score to be incorrect, there can be instances where incorrect information has been documented. If you do notice entries on your credit file you don’t recognise, then you should contact the credit reference agency as soon as possible.

In instances of fraud, a police report needs to be made, and contacting the lender ensures fraud doesn’t damage your credit score moving forward.

Fortunately, advanced efforts are in place to help minimise fraudulent applications, including liveness checks. As well as using online document verification to ensure paperwork is genuine, a liveness check will require the individual to take a photograph so additional checks can be carried out.

However, remaining vigilant when giving out information is the best way to avoid fraud and a depleted credit score. There are also services available that can send alerts when credit applications are made, allowing you to deal with any nefarious applications as soon as possible.

To see what your credit score currently is, you should obtain a credit report from all three agencies, as this will give you full context of what could be affecting your credit. It also allows you to browse all the entries and appeal to those that are unfamiliar.

The Importance of Checking the Children’s Barred List

Posted on by admin-vo

Background checks can be an essential part of any hiring process, but they are crucial when hiring a person to work with children. List 99 was started by the Home Office Consultancy Service in 1955. A similar list was also created in 1999, known as the Protection of Children Act.

In 2009, List 99 and other lists like it were replaced by the Children’s Barred List, which was created as part of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and managed by the Independent Safeguarding Authority, which would merge with the Criminal Record Bureau in 2012 and be known as the Disclosure and Barring Service.

What is The Children’s Barred List?

The Children’s Barred List is a check carried out by the DBS that allows employers to make safer hiring decisions regarding children and vulnerable adults. The list contains details of those not permitted to work with vulnerable people, ensuring that a business is safeguarding its clients at all times.

What Crimes Lead to Inclusion on The Children’s Barred List?

There is no one criminal offence that leads to inclusion on The Children’s Barred List, but it often means that a serious crime has been committed, often of a sexual or violent nature. Although some DBS checks will omit some minor offences, offences involving safeguarding and sexual offences will always be shown.

Are Barred Lists Included with a DBS Check?

Although there are several types of DBS checks, only an Enhanced DBS Check will include Barred Lists and other cautions and convictions. If someone is registered on a Barred List, it will be documentation on the DBS certificate.

Employers can only request an Enhanced DBS Check if the role requires the person to work with or near children and can only be carried out by employers.

In addition to aiding those wanting to check the Children’s Barred List, online verification can be used to authenticate over 4000 documents from the United Kingdom and abroad.

How Long Does an Enhanced DBS Check Take?

When carrying out an enhanced DBS check, it normally takes around 14 days, but there can be instances when it takes longer. For example, there can be a delay if several police forces are involved or if incorrect details have been given at the outset.

Further Measures That Can Be Taken to Ensure Vulnerable People Remain Safe

Some companies may carry out their own background checks, whereas others may ask potential candidates to perform an Enhanced DBS Check. When receiving documentation regarding background checks, it must be checked for authenticity.

Fortunately, those checking the Children’s Barred List can verify valid documents using a professional verification service. Simply upload the document, and a series of checks will be carried out to ensure it is genuine.

Although employers need to request an Enhanced DBS Check, those applying for positions will need to supply documentation like a passport, driving licence in addition to documentation proving their address,

All these documents and more can be verified online within one minute using complex algorithms that can highlight any irregularities straight away.

Who Can See My Credit Report?

Posted on by admin-vo

Given its name, it is understandable why people assume that checks are only made when applying for credit, but this isn’t the case. Credit checks have become integral for confirming identities, addresses and employment status, but who can see your credit report?

The following is an overview of companies and organisations that can view your credit file and the circumstances a credit check will be carried out.

Banks

Banks access credit reports as a part of their identification vetting and will also use them when applying for credit facilities like an overdraft. A poor credit score does not mean a bank account will be denied, but it could mean credit facilities are limited.

Creditors and Lenders

In addition to banks, people may also apply for loans from other providers. As with banks, a credit search will carry you to your details and ascertain how you have previously managed credit. Those with low credit scores can still obtain a loan in some instances, but the interest rate will likely be higher.

Mortgage Providers

Although mortgage applications can be made via the bank, some third-party providers may provide better rates or offers. However, applicants will still need a reasonable credit score to ensure they can make the repayments.

Employers

Employers often run two types of credit searches. A soft credit search allows them to verify personal details and will not be recorded on a credit file. In contrast, a hard credit search assesses financial responsibility and will be recorded.

Employers carrying out a hard credit search must notify job applicants beforehand.

Utility Companies

Gas, water and electricity companies will carry out a credit check to verify your identity and ascertain you are not in arrears with other suppliers. If there is still a debt owed regarding utilities, then a prepay meter may be used instead.

Mobile Providers

Those wanting a phone contract will be subjected to a credit check, as mobile operators will provide the handset and service via credit. Although a lower credit score doesn’t mean refusal, fewer physical devices and tariff options could be available.

Government

Although Government checks are fewer than financial institutions, they occur. A credit check is carried out in specific cases, such as calculating child maintenance or assessing an application for a license.

When a credit check is used for identification purposes, this will not be recorded, so permission is not required. However, hard credit checks can adversely affect a credit file misused, and companies and lenders must always seek authorisation.

Companies must also ensure that documentation is authentic, which is commonly done using online document verification, ensuring only those permitted can view a credit score.

Checking Your Own Credit Report

The best way to ensure the details on your credit file are correct is by checking them yourself. There are three agencies to check, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. You should obtain copies from all three agencies to see all details about you.

Should there be any discrepancies with your credit score, then you should contact the credit reference agency as soon as possible and the lender if possible. If there have been instances of fraud, then you must report this to the police.