Background Mobile and Dating Apps Warnings

Do you use background checking or dating checking apps to check on people for employment, property rentals or before giving out credit?  Or maybe you were turned down for a rental, employment or date and don't know why...  The FTC sent letters issued letters to makers of six apps, warning them that the apps  must comply with FCRA the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

The FTC warned the apps marketers that, if they have reason to believe the background reports they provide are being used for employment screening, housing, credit, or other similar purposes, they must comply with the Act.

Some of the apps include criminal record histories which could be used in employment and tenant screening.

Mobile apps that supply such information may qualify as CRAs under the Act. CRAs must take reasonable steps to ensure the user of each report has a 'permissible purpose' to use the report; take reasonable steps to ensure the maximum possible accuracy of the information conveyed in its reports; and provide users of its reports with information about their obligations under the FCRA.

In the case of consumer reports provided for employment purposes, for example, CRAs must provide employers with information regarding their obligation to provide notice to employees and applicants of any adverse action taken on the basis of a consumer report.

According to the letters, the agency has made no determination whether the companies are violating the FCRA, but encourages them to review their apps and their policies and procedures to be sure they comply with the FCRA.

1 thought on “Background Mobile and Dating Apps Warnings”

  1. Finally! You got a dating service that's not just free but also helps you find your soul mate on the go.

Comments are closed.