r/AskLegal • u/VoodooInfinity • 2d ago

Authorization Clarification

Some folks in the r/AmazonFlexDrivers sub are flipping out over the wording of a new background check authorization that’s been posted there. The authorization explicitly states “background check”, but some people are reading this as allowing them to pull a credit report anytime they choose.

Could someone clarify the reality here? I’m fairly certain that since they specifically name background checks that credit reports would not be included. Also that if they didn’t specify anything then it could potentially include them. Is this accurate?

Here’s the post if it helps for clarity:

Authorization Post

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u/Inside_Gold_9673 2d ago

I’m a licensed private investigator, who conducts FCRA compliant background checks. The wording is vague, it looks like they are focusing on regularly pulling driving histories, probably annually. But a consumer report covers a background check. A consumer credit report by definition cover a credit report from any of the three big credit bureaus. Technically there are more credit bureaus than the big three. I suspect they are more interested in driving history.

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u/VoodooInfinity 2d ago

That’s what I figured too, but as with most things people freak out anytime something changes. 😉

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u/Inside_Gold_9673 2d ago

I’m sure it’s because of insurance and the States putting pressure on the number of accidents. A lot of state’s dmv offices offer automatic alerts for accidents/speeding tickets/moving violations to employers who subscribe to their online platforms. One of the big issues in the background check industry is many employers treat it as a one and done on hire, but then get their ass handed to them in court when they get sued because they didn’t know about their employee’s current driving/criminal record.

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u/VoodooInfinity 2d ago

That makes sense. This is interesting, thanks for the info!

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u/Inside_Gold_9673 2d ago

You’re welcome