A background check is a procedure that combines data sources and public information to investigate a person or entity. They can be used to verify if a person is who they claim to be or to ascertain if a company exists and is competent within a subject matter area it claims to be. It can range from a cursory internet search using a name to a deep-dive inquiry into the major players that have interacted with a person or business in question. Checking for negative news associated with an individual or company is essential for uncovering a client’s involvement in activities related to financial crime or that pose a reputational risk.