The Legality of Online Screening
Explore how social media is reshaping background checks and what every employer should know to navigate compliance and mitigate risk. In this exclusive interview, legal expert Pam Devata shares practical insights for today’s hiring landscape.
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About Attorney Pam Devata
Pam Devata is a recognized leader in employment law and a trusted advisor on background screening. As a partner at Seyfarth Shaw, Devata brings deep expertise in federal and state laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), that shape the way organizations hire. Her perspective comes from years of representing employers in complex legal matters, making her an essential resource for understanding compliance challenges in digital screening.
The Legality of Online Screening: An Overview
A single bad hire can impact company culture and cost thousands. As digital footprints grow, more organizations rely on social media insights in hiring, but with increased access comes increased legal risk. What information is safe to use? How do you balance transparency and compliance? Pam Devata explains the essential questions every employer must answer before using social media in background checks and shares expert ways to protect your organization.
Compliance Best Practices For Online Screening
Whether using traditional or digital screening methods, following consistent, well-documented processes is crucial. Devata stresses the need for clear policies around information gathering, FCRA compliance, and decision authority. Accurate records and properly trained professionals are your best defense. Solidify your approach with insights from Devata on what separates compliant, successful screening from costly mistakes.
What Your Social Media Screening Vendor Should Know
Your background check vendor isn’t just a service provider, they’re a crucial partner in legal compliance. Devata outlines what to demand from vendors: up-to-date legal knowledge, strong data protection, and the ability to filter out protected information. Discover how the right vendor can help you navigate changing laws, prevent errors, and protect your business if a claim arises.
How to Use Online Information in Hiring
Drawing the line between relevant and prohibited information isn’t always straightforward. Devata walks through real-world scenarios that reveal where employers can and can’t use social media content in their decisions. The consequences of crossing those lines can be significant. Learn what’s allowed, what’s risky, and how to ensure every decision you make is compliant and fair.
Yes, Social Media Screening is Legal, When…
Social media can be a powerful tool in hiring when used legally and responsibly. Pam Devata’s guidance empowers you to minimize risk: know the law, use data wisely, and always partner with vendors like Fama who prioritizes compliance.
Ready for actionable strategies you can trust? Download the Legality of Online Screening to get all the details and stay ahead in a changing world.