Comprehensive Criminal Database Search with AKAs
Edify’s Nationwide Comprehensive Criminal Database Search with AKAs goes beyond the standard database scan by including all known alias names from your applicant’s SSN trace—such as maiden names, name changes, or common spelling variations. This dramatically expands your screening coverage and helps prevent missed records due to undisclosed identities.
Our search covers 400+ million records from over 2,600 agencies and includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, sex offender registries, and watch lists. It’s a powerful screening tool for organizations with compliance sensitivity, multi-state operations, or high-risk hiring needs.
How It Works
- Performs a name-based search using all alias names tied to SSN trace results.
- Scans over 400 million records across felony, misdemeanor, sex offender, and security databases.
- Flags records under any name variation—critical for identity-based offenses.
When to Use It
- When screening applicants with prior name changes or extensive address histories.
- For positions involving trust, access to sensitive data, or public-facing roles.
- As a compliance best-practice alongside standard criminal checks.
TAT & Fees
- Turnaround time: Typically same-day, sometimes within hours.
- FCRA requires verification of all database at originating source hits before action is taken.
Why It Matters
Applicants don’t always disclose all names they’ve used. If your search only covers a single name, you risk missing critical records. This is especially relevant for industries like healthcare, education, financial services, or in-home care. An alias-inclusive search ensures you don’t overlook criminal history tied to a different identity—and helps you stay compliant with FCRA guidance on data accuracy.
Use-Cases
- A staffing agency screening applicants with frequent address or name changes.
- A nonprofit onboarding volunteers for sensitive service programs.
- A financial firm hiring advisors who’ve lived in multiple states or used multiple names.
Comprehensive Criminal with AKAs FAQs
Q: What does “AKA” mean in this context?
A: It refers to “also known as” names—aliases such as maiden names, legal name changes, or misspellings.
Q: Where are the alias names sourced from?
A: They’re derived from the applicant’s SSN trace and address history results.
Q: Does this search replace county criminal checks?
A: No. It complements them by flagging records across jurisdictions tied to all known names.
Q: Is this a legal requirement?
A: Not required, but highly recommended for risk-sensitive or compliance-driven roles.
Q: Can this be included in my standard package?
A: Yes. It can be bundled as part of a multi-layered screening approach.
Authoritative Source
For more on using alias-inclusive criminal checks within FCRA guidelines, visit the FTC, CFPB, or the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA).
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