Handing over your fingerprints and personal details can feel uncomfortable, especially with so much news about data breaches. The good news is that fingerprint background checks run through some of the most tightly controlled systems in the country. Here is what happens to your prints and what you can do to protect yourself.
Getting fingerprinted for a background check? PDX Fingerprinting takes ink and Live Scan prints at our Hillsboro, Beaverton and Lake Oswego offices. Book an appointment online.
Who sees your fingerprints
- The fingerprint technician, who takes your prints and checks your ID.
- The agency that requested the check, such as a licensing board or employer, or you, if you requested your own FBI record.
- The state and/or FBI systems that compare your prints against criminal history records.
Fingerprint results can only be used for the purpose they were requested for. An employer or licensing board cannot share your FBI results with others or use them for an unrelated purpose.
How the FBI protects fingerprint data
FBI criminal history checks run through the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division. Agencies and companies that handle this data must follow the CJIS Security Policy, which sets rules for encryption, access control, staff screening and audits. Electronic fingerprint submissions are encrypted in transit.
Whether the FBI or state keeps your prints on file after the check depends on why they were taken. Some employers and licensing boards enroll you in ongoing “Rap Back” monitoring, which tells them about new arrests. If you want to know, ask the agency requesting your prints.
Can someone steal your identity with your fingerprints?
It is very unlikely. A fingerprint card on its own is not something a fraudster can easily use to open accounts. The bigger risk is the personal information on the card or application, such as your Social Security number, date of birth and address. Protect that the same way you would any sensitive document.
How to protect yourself
- Use an established fingerprinting provider with a real office and clear pricing.
- Only request your FBI record through the FBI itself or an FBI-approved channeler.
- Mail cards in a sealed envelope with tracking, or let the agency or provider submit them.
- Do not email photos of your fingerprint card or your full Social Security number.
- Shred extra or rejected cards rather than throwing them away.
- Be cautious of websites that look official but are not. Check the web address before you enter personal details.
How we handle your information
At PDX Fingerprinting, your prints are taken in a private setting by trained staff. Ink cards are given to you or submitted as you direct. For our FBI background check service, your results go to you, not to anyone else. Questions? Call us at 503-212-0678.
Related reading
- What shows up on an FBI fingerprint check
- How to read your FBI report
- How FBI fingerprinting works
- FBI vs. regular background checks
Frequently asked questions
Does the FBI keep my fingerprints?
It depends on the purpose of the check. Ask the agency that requested your prints about its retention and Rap Back policy.
Can my employer see my FBI report?
Only if the employer requested it as an authorized agency. If you requested your own record, only you receive it, and you choose who to share it with.
Is Live Scan safer than ink?
Both are secure when handled correctly. Live Scan sends prints electronically and encrypted, so there is no paper card to lose in the mail.
