In today’s digital world, finding information about a person has become easier than ever. However, checking criminal records isn’t always straightforward. In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to check someone’s criminal record online and what to keep in mind when doing so on a PC.
Whether you’re hiring an employee, verifying a tenant, or checking an individual’s background for licensing or compliance purposes, conducting a thorough background check is essential to reduce the risk of fraud and maintain trust.
What is a criminal record?
A criminal record is an official record of a person’s involvement with the criminal justice system. It contains information about any crimes they have been accused of, charged with, or convicted of. However, not all entries indicate the person was found guilty; some cases may be dismissed or ongoing.
How to check someone’s Criminal Records Online
To check someone’s criminal records online, use the following methods:
- Use reverse image search
- Use background check tool
- Use tax identification number
- Use email and social media channels
- Use legal directories
- Use AI-powered research tools
Let us look at these methods in detail.
1] Use reverse image search
Reverse image search is a method that uses a person’s photo to find related information about them online. Instead of typing a name, you upload an image, and search engines try to find where that image appears on the internet. If the same (or a similar) image appears on websites, social media, news articles, or forums, it can yield matching results that may reveal the person’s identity or background.
- Open Google Images.
- Click on the camera icon (Search by image).
- Upload the photo or paste the image URL in the available space.
- Click Search. Google Images will display results showing similar images and related web pages.
2] Use background check tool
Pixalytica is a powerful background screening tool that can verify a person’s identity using just a photo. Background check tools can be very useful for checking criminal records online.
Pixalytica can provide not only that, but a full report about a person. In under 20 seconds, it generates a detailed report that helps businesses quickly assess who they are dealing with.
The report may include:
- Name and surname verification
- Facial image search results across public URLs
- Connections or affiliations with other individuals
- Criminal background information
- Risk score assessment
- PEP (Politically Exposed Person) status with a short summary
3] Use tax identification number
A tax identification number (such as a Social Security Number in the US or a PAN in India) is a unique ID linked to an individual’s official and financial records. While it does not directly show criminal history, it can help verify a person’s identity before conducting further background checks.
- Obtain the person’s tax ID.
- Visit official government portals and use available verification options.
- Match the details with the information you have.
- Use this verified identity to search further on court or legal websites.
Note: Tax identification details are sensitive personal information. Always use them legally and with consent, and avoid sharing or misusing such data.
4] Use email and social media channels
You can also use a person’s email address or social media profiles to find publicly available information about their identity and background. Many people link their email IDs to platforms like social networks or forums, which can help you trace their online presence.
- Visit major platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or X.
- Enter the person’s email address in quotes (e.g., “[email protected]”) in search bars across these platforms.
- Look for matching profiles.
- Identify public posts, comments, or mentions that may raise red flags.
5] Use legal directories
Some countries provide partial public access to legal directories and court records. If such access is available in your country, you can use official court websites or legal portals to find court cases linked to an individual.
Additionally, regulatory and financial authorities in many countries maintain public lists of defaulters, fraudsters, or individuals involved in financial misconduct. Anti-corruption bodies also publish information about officials found guilty of unethical practices.
- Visit the official court or legal record websites (such as PACER, eCourts or similar portals).
- Enter the person’s name or case details in the search field.
- Filter results by location, court type, or case status (if available).
- Review case summaries, hearing dates, and outcomes. Cross-check details to ensure the records match the correct individual.
Related: Best Online Background Check Verification Tools
6] Use AI-powered research tools
Many AI-powered research tools nowadays offer the ability to gather publicly available information about a person from multiple online sources. These tools use artificial intelligence to scan websites, databases, and public records, and present consolidated results.
For example, tools like Lenso or Spokeo use intelligent data aggregation to gather information from multiple public sources, though most detailed reports are available through paid plans.
- Choose a reliable AI research or people-search tool.
- Enter available details such as name, email, or phone number.
- Review aggregated results from websites, directories, and public records.
- Check linked sources (if available) for accuracy and context.
Things to keep in mind while checking someone’s Criminal Records
- Follow legal guidelines: Always ensure you have proper consent (if required) and comply with local laws before checking anyone’s records.
- Verify from reliable sources: Use official portals instead of random or unverified websites.
- Cross-check details: Similar names can lead to confusion. Verify identity carefully using additional details.
- Understand limitations of data: Online records may be incomplete, outdated, or spread across multiple databases.
- Avoid misuse of information: Don’t use the information for discrimination or unlawful purposes.
I hope you find this useful.
Read: Top 10 cybersecurity threats you should take note of.
How to know if someone is criminal?
To know if a person has a criminal background, you can check whether any criminal records exist in their name. The safest approach is to use official sources such as court records, police verification systems, or trusted background check services where available. These sources provide verified information and help you make a more informed decision.
How to detect someone is lying?
It’s not always easy to tell if someone is lying, but you can look for inconsistencies in what they say or how their story changes over time. You can also check social media profiles, public records, or other available information. If something seems suspicious, you can check whether any criminal records exist in their name using reliable and official sources.
Read Next: Best people search engines to find people easily.
