An internet scan is the process of examining a person's online behavior across various platforms. These scans are commonly employed by organizations, primarily for risk management purposes. They delve into a candidate's digital footprint to identify potential red flags and assess suitability.
Why Organizations Conduct Internet Scans
- Risk Management: As the primary reason, organizations use scans to reduce potential risks associated with hiring a specific candidate.
- Reputational Damage: Companies aim to avoid situations where an employee's online activity could harm the company's image.
- Security Concerns: Scans help identify individuals with a history of suspicious online behavior that could indicate potential security threats.
What an Internet Scan Examines
Internet scans evaluate various aspects of a candidate’s internet behavior:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Social Media | Checks for posts, comments, and shared content that may be deemed inappropriate or offensive. |
| Online Forums | Evaluates activity on forums and other discussion platforms. |
| Public Records | Looks for information available in public records like court documents or other official records. |
| Website Content | Reviews websites or blogs personally created or managed by the candidate. |
How Internet Scans are Performed
- Data Collection: Information about the candidate is collected from various sources online.
- Analysis: The collected data is analyzed for any indications of risk or inappropriate behavior.
- Report Generation: The findings are summarized into a report, often indicating a risk level.
Considerations for Candidates
- Be Mindful of Your Online Presence: Understanding that an internet scan might be part of the hiring process should prompt everyone to be thoughtful about what they post online.
- Privacy Settings: Review and adjust privacy settings on social media profiles to control the information visible to the public.
- Cleanup: Consider deleting any posts or content that could negatively impact your chances of employment.
Internet scans, therefore, are an increasingly common tool for risk management. They provide a way for organizations to examine a candidate's internet behavior at various levels, allowing for informed decisions before hiring.
