An alias name on a background check refers to any name other than a person's legal name that they have used at some point in their life. This could include nicknames, maiden names (for women), professional names, or names used for various reasons, such as to avoid detection or to maintain privacy in certain situations. Understanding how alias names are handled during background checks is crucial for both individuals and employers.
Why Do People Use Alias Names?
Several reasons explain why individuals might use alias names:
- Marriage/Divorce: A woman changing her name after marriage or reverting to her maiden name after a divorce is a common reason for having an alias.
- Nickname Usage: Widely using a nickname, especially in informal settings, can lead to its inclusion in records.
- Artistic or Professional Names: Actors, musicians, and other professionals often use stage names which are considered aliases.
- Privacy Concerns: Some individuals might use aliases to protect their privacy, particularly in online spaces or situations where personal information is vulnerable.
- Past Criminal Activity: Individuals with criminal records might use aliases to avoid detection by law enforcement or employers. This is a significant concern during background checks.
How Do Alias Names Affect Background Checks?
Alias names significantly complicate background checks. Because the search requires matching an individual to all potential names, a thorough background check must consider all potential aliases. Failing to include all known aliases can lead to incomplete and potentially misleading results. A comprehensive background check will explicitly search for records under various names, significantly increasing the accuracy and reliability of the report.
What Happens if an Alias is Found During a Background Check?
The impact of finding an alias on a background check varies depending on the context:
- Innocuous Aliases: A maiden name, common nickname, or professional name usually won't cause significant concern. The background check will likely reveal these as alternative names associated with the individual's legal name and history.
- Suspicious Aliases: Multiple aliases, particularly in conjunction with inconsistent addresses or other identifying information, can raise red flags. This may trigger further investigation, especially if there's a history of attempting to conceal identity.
- Criminal History Linked to Alias: If an alias is connected to criminal activity or other negative information, it will be included in the background check report. This can have serious consequences for employment or other opportunities.
How Can I Ensure All My Aliases are Included in a Background Check?
If you're undergoing a background check, proactively providing all your known aliases is essential for accuracy. This minimizes the potential for misinterpretations and ensures a complete picture of your history. This transparency demonstrates honesty and helps facilitate a smooth and efficient process.
What if I Don't Know All My Previous Aliases?
If you're uncertain about all previous aliases, contacting former employers, schools, or other institutions where you may have used a different name can be beneficial. Reviewing old documents like bank statements, driver's licenses, or past identification cards can help recall past names used.
Are there different types of alias searches during background checks?
While not explicitly categorized as "types," background check companies use various methods to uncover aliases. This includes searching public records, databases, and cross-referencing information from various sources to identify connections between names and individuals. The depth and comprehensiveness of this alias search can vary based on the type of check conducted.
What is the difference between an alias and a pseudonym?
While both terms relate to using a name other than one's legal name, there's a subtle difference. An alias often implies a deliberate attempt to conceal identity or use a different name for specific reasons. A pseudonym, on the other hand, is more often associated with writers, artists, or other individuals who choose a different name for creative or professional purposes. However, both would likely show up in a comprehensive background check.
