Background search services are a big scam. I have led staffing agencies and signed contracts with these BG Check servicers, and reviewed thousands of applicants.

Companies like HireRight or Experian have core offerings that are no different than small services that charge a la carte for criminal and employment verification. They don’t even verify past employer EINs. Candidates can provide core docs (W2 and employer contact info) then deflect.

Employment background checks legally require explicit written consent under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) before an employer can pull any data from agencies like Experian or Equifax. If candidates don't provide this permission, they cannot access these databases to verify income or history. If you as a recruiter walk away from the top candidates that’s on you to have report that back to the stakeholders. We’re in an employers market so you won’t likely see much of this push back as much now.

If a highly sought candidate withholds consent, prepared HR teams will use alternative methods to verify backgrounds.

I know people who used their own LLCs as reference, got email for verification from HireRight and responded with verification letterhead stating the employee (themselves) worked at said company at said dates, and because liability refused to provide any other details. Passed with exceptions.