Should You Conduct Background Checks on Interns?

Just because interns are often short-term or entry-level doesn’t mean they won’t have access to sensitive information or be placed in positions of trust. Interns, especially those well-thought-of, might operate in much the same way as a full-time employee, meaning that it makes sense that they should face the same level of scrutiny.

Like regular employees, the vast majority of interns pose absolutely no threat to a company, but there will always be those few who do. This is where vetting becomes crucial. If you skip the screening process, you could hire someone with a criminal history or questionable background that puts your workplace, employees, and reputation at risk.

Another point to consider is the level of accountability that comes with vetting. When an intern is carefully screened and passed, it shows them they have reached the company’s inner sanctum, which not everybody makes it to. It provides a level of trust and accountability that translates directly to the intern’s actions. 

Without this, they may feel like their role doesn’t require the same level of responsibility as a permanent position, which could lead to poor work ethic, dishonesty, or even fraud. 

Security

If interns are working with sensitive information, either internally or with client data, you should ensure that the information goes into the right hands. A thorough background check will reveal potential red flags that companies should look to avoid.

Minimize workplace risk

It’s not just about security; it’s also about safety. Employees want to feel secure when they go to work, and safety in the workplace has become a major focus for every company. Without a background check, you risk bringing in someone who might have a history of violence, harassment, or misconduct. 

Whether that person is an intern or a full-time employee doesn’t matter—they pose a risk. 

Internships often lead to paid positions

As mentioned earlier, internships often lead to full-time positions, meaning a comprehensive background check will be needed at some point—or at least it should be. Conducting the background check early ticks that particular box and allows companies to move forward with employment quickly.

Protect your company’s reputation

Whether it’s a CEO or an intern, a bad hire can have serious negative knock-on effects for a company. If an intern engages in unethical behavior or criminal activity while working at your company, it can reflect poorly on your organization. 

Customers don’t necessarily care who committed the misdeed; they’ll simply remember that that particular company can’t be trusted. 

Avoid costly legal issues

When things go wrong within a company, be it data breaches, harassment, bullying, or theft, the legal ramifications and costs can be bruising. Companies can easily be liable for negligent hiring if they fail to perform the necessary due diligence – even if it concerns an intern. 

Tailor the Check to the Position

Not everybody requires the same level of scrutiny, and companies should carefully assess what role an intern might play. If they’re going to be handling sensitive information or customer data, it makes sense to run a thorough background check, but if they’re going to be primarily making coffee for the next month, maybe not.

Ensure Compliance with FCRA

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) doesn’t discriminate and applies to all background checks, including those for interns. This means that written consent is imperative before any checks are done, as it is the proper procedure if any adverse actions are taken. 

Look for Red Flags in Relevant Areas

Most interns won’t have long, complicated employment histories to search through; instead, focus on where red flags might arise. Criminal background checks and educational verifications are good places to start. Ensure they’ve studied and achieved what they say they have and that there aren’t any criminal skeletons in their closets. 

Conduct Drug Screening if Necessary

If your industry typically requires drug screenings, interns absolutely need to follow the same procedure. Failing to conduct a drug test is playing with fire for those operating machinery, handling sensitive data, or working in a high-risk environment.

Use a Reputable Background Check Provider

Like interns, not all background check services are as reputable as they should be. To ensure the best results, use a reputable background check service like ScoutLogic that conducts comprehensive checks in compliance with state and federal laws.