Background and Reference Investigations Flashcards
7 cards from real CODESP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Background and Reference Investigations flashcards as text
Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard background investigation for a public sector position?
Answer: Medical history and current health status
Medical history is protected under the ADA and HIPAA and is not a standard component of background investigations; it is only obtained post-offer under specific circumstances.
An investigator discovers that a candidate's resume claims a bachelor's degree, but the university has no record of the candidate graduating. The most appropriate next step is to:
Answer: Contact the candidate to provide an opportunity to explain the discrepancy
Best practice is to give the candidate an opportunity to explain discrepancies, as administrative errors or name changes can sometimes cause legitimate records issues.
The statute of limitations on reporting most adverse credit information under FCRA (excluding bankruptcies) is:
Answer: 7 years
Most negative credit information, such as late payments, collections, and judgments, may be reported for up to 7 years under FCRA.
Which of the following best supports the principle of 'individualized assessment' when making a hiring decision based on a criminal record?
Answer: Considering the nature of the crime, the time elapsed, and its direct relationship to the job
Individualized assessment requires weighing the specific offense, how long ago it occurred, evidence of rehabilitation, and how it relates to the job being filled.
When a hiring agency contracts with an outside firm to conduct background investigations, the hiring agency:
Answer: Retains ultimate responsibility for compliance with applicable laws including FCRA
Even when outsourcing background investigations, the hiring agency retains legal responsibility for compliance with FCRA and other applicable laws.
Which of the following correctly describes the 'pre-adverse action' notice required by FCRA?
Answer: A notice given to the candidate before a final adverse decision is made, including the report and summary of rights
FCRA requires that before taking adverse action, employers provide the candidate with a copy of the consumer report and a summary of FCRA rights so they can dispute inaccuracies.
In background investigations, 'scope creep' most commonly refers to:
Answer: Investigators gathering information beyond what is job-relevant or authorized, creating legal and ethical risks
Scope creep in background investigations occurs when investigators collect information that exceeds what is job-relevant or was authorized, risking discrimination claims and privacy violations.