Text Size
Print
Email
International News
- Text Size
- Print
- Email
New Product. Is There A Global Criminal Record Database Search
New Product. A Global Criminal Record Database Search
Who hasn't been pitched to use (for a fee) a Global Database Search for International Criminal Records."
This concept is indeed largely a myth and often used to mislead or scam clients.
There is no single, all-encompassing "global database" of criminal records that a private entity can access to conduct instant background checks worldwide. Criminal records are highly decentralized and governed by the laws and data privacy regulations of individual countries, states, and even local jurisdictions.
Why the "Global Database Search" is (Mostly) a Scam/Misconception:
Sovereignty and Data Privacy: Criminal records are controlled by sovereign governments. No country shares its comprehensive criminal justice records with a single, private "global database" accessible by commercial entities. Laws like GDPR in the EU, for example, strictly limit the collection, storage, and transfer of personal data, including criminal records.
-Decentralization: Even within a single country (like the US, as we discussed), criminal records are held at various levels (county, state, federal). Internationally, this fragmentation is multiplied exponentially across 195+ countries, each with its own legal system, record-keeping practices, and language.
-Access Restrictions: Access to official criminal records is often restricted to law enforcement agencies, specific government bodies, or requires judicial order. Private companies and individuals typically have very limited or no direct access to primary sources in many countries.
-Accuracy and Completeness: Even if a database existed, maintaining its accuracy, completeness, and up-to-date status across all global jurisdictions would be an impossible task due to the sheer volume, continuous updates, and varying reporting standards.
2025 The Background Investigator. All Rights Reserved.