> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://faq.rightperson.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# What is an open source search?

An open source search is a background check that involves reviewing publicly available information about a candidate. The goal is to identify factors that may be relevant to the hiring process and provide the employer with a broader decision-making basis.

This check is especially relevant for roles involving high trust, public visibility, security responsibility, or access to sensitive information.



## Purpose of the search

An open source search can help to:

* Confirm that the information provided by the candidate aligns with public sources  
* Identify potential risk factors related to reputation, behavior, or suitability  
* Highlight issues the employer should be aware of before hiring  

The search is conducted according to legal and ethical principles, with respect for privacy.



## How is the search performed?

1. Review of declared profiles  
Candidates are invited to share their own profiles (e.g. LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook). These are reviewed first.

2.  General internet searches  
We conduct web searches (e.g. Google) using the candidate’s name and relevant keywords.

3.  Search for undeclared public profiles  
We attempt to identify social media accounts that are publicly accessible but not declared by the candidate.

4.  Assessment of open content  
Content is evaluated based on type, context, and relevance. It must be publicly available and related to the candidate’s digital footprint.



## What sources are used?

We search **only open, legal sources,**  no private or closed accounts. Examples include:

* Google and other search engines  
* Social media platforms such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Pinterest  
* Forums, discussion boards, and any relevant news articles  
* Other websites with publicly accessible content  

> We do **not** access closed groups, private profiles, messages, or paid services.


## What is assessed?

Based on public information, we assess whether any content raises concern. We use **behavioral categories** such as:

* **Nudity or pornographic content**  
* **Political extremism or hate speech**  
* **Threats, prejudice, or harassment**  
* **Self-harm or suicide-related content**  
* **Offensive or sexualized material**  
* **Drug use or violent themes**  
* **Personal attacks or derogatory comments about appearance, intelligence, etc.**  
* **Graphic or violent imagery**  

> Content is assessed in context , not just based on keywords or individual posts.



## Reporting

The findings are included in the overall report and contain:

* A summary of whether any relevant content was found  
* A brief, factual description of any findings  
* Neutral wording — no interpretation or judgment  

> We do **not** assess how findings affect the candidate’s suitability — that is the client’s responsibility.  
> We do **not** list which profiles or websites were reviewed, but this can be provided upon request.



## What we don’t do

* We do **not** access private accounts or closed groups  
* We do **not** monitor activity or interactions  
* We do **not** interpret personality  
* We do **not** store personal data beyond what’s required for the report  



## 🔗 Related articles
* [How do I complete a background check? ](https://faq.rightperson.com/en/article/how-do-i-complete-a-background-check-b07x68/)
* [What is an ID check? ](https://faq.rightperson.com/en/article/what-is-an-id-check-i63u4f/)
* [What is a credit check?](https://faq.rightperson.com/en/article/what-is-a-credit-check-1itynim/)

## 📩 Need help?

Do you have questions about how open source searches are conducted or how content is evaluated?  
📩 Send us an email at support@rightperson.com we’ll be happy to help!