Background checks don’t inoculate companies against occupational
fraud. After all, many thieves have never been caught. Yet these procedures
remain critical to fraud prevention. Before conducting checks, obtain written
authorization from the job applicant. Depending on the position, you might
contact former employers, verify education and professional certifications, and
review criminal, credit and driving records. Medical records are off limits, as
are military records, unless you obtain permission from the applicant to
release them. Talk to your attorney to ensure the checks you conduct don’t
violate any laws.