The scope of a background check depends on the role and the law where the job is based. Common elements include confirming identity, verifying previous employers and dates, checking qualifications and, for some roles, credit or criminal record checks. In the UK, criminal record checks run through the DBS in England and Wales, Disclosure Scotland and AccessNI in Northern Ireland, and the level permitted depends on the role.
Checks protect employers and the people they serve, but they involve sensitive personal data and can delay start dates. Good practice is to tell candidates which checks will be carried out and why, obtain consent where required, run only checks relevant to the role and give candidates a chance to explain anything that comes up. Rules on criminal records vary widely by country, so local legal guidance is worth taking.