Names tell a story, but not always the full one. People often use different names throughout their lives, whether from marriage, nicknames, or simple spelling variations. Most of the time, it’s innocent. However, in some cases, a change of name can be used to hide something more serious.
A Real-Life Scenario: The Case of “John Doe”
A man named John Doe has a prior criminal record in another state. So he moves to a new city and applies for a job using the name Johnathan Doe.
When filling out his employment paperwork, he provides:
- A driver’s license with the new name of Johnathan Doe
- His new address
- A social security number
Why The Alias Name Search Matters
When the employer conducts a background check under the name Johnathan Doe, the search returns no criminal records because his past convictions were filed under John Doe. However, if the employer’s background check includes an Alias Names Search, the system uncovers that:
- “John Doe” is now using the name “Johnathan Doe.”
Records under that name reveal prior criminal history or active warrants.
Real-World Insight
Alias names can come from:
- Name changes (e.g., marriage, divorce)
- Nicknames or shortened forms (e.g., “John” vs. “Johnathan”)
- Intentional deception (fake names used to hide identity)
- Data entry errors or alternate spellings
But regardless of why they exist, ignoring alias names leaves critical blind spots. The Alias Names Search ensures every identity linked to an applicant is examined, giving employers the full picture before they make a hiring decision.
Ready to Protect Your Business from Hidden Risks?
Include Alias Name Searches in your pre-employment screening process. Start screening with KRESS and make sure you’re seeing the full picture every time.