FALSE FLAGS — When Background Check Errors Derail Your Life (and What You Can Do About It)
From inaccurate criminal records to mistaken identity, background check errors can cost you a job, housing, or financial opportunities
Learn how R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys fight back when background check companies get it wrong.
The Hidden Danger of a “Clean” Background Check Gone Wrong
Background checks are supposed to keep employers, landlords, and lenders informed—not misinformed.
But in reality, errors in background checks are shockingly common. And the damage they cause? Career loss, denied housing, and financial fallout.
At R23 Law, our California Consumer Protection Attorneys represent individuals harmed by inaccurate background checks. Whether you’re a rideshare driver, a job applicant, or a tenant, you have rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and related consumer protection laws.
Real Background Check Errors with Real Consequences
From the archive, here are common—and legally actionable—background check mistakes affecting consumers nationwide:
1. Cell Phone Tickets Misreported as Alcohol Offenses
Rideshare drivers are losing work because companies like Checkr mislabel minor driving violations—like phone use behind the wheel—as alcohol-related offenses. These false flags appear criminal when they’re not.
2. Sealed or Expunged Criminal Records Still Showing
In states like New Jersey, sealed or expunged charges are still popping up on reports—illegally. Employers and landlords aren’t supposed to see these at all.
3. Mistaken Identity with Twins or Name Matches
People with similar names—or twins—often have their information accidentally merged, resulting in a report showing criminal or financial history that belongs to someone else.
4. The Ripple Effect of a Single Inaccurate Report
One false report doesn’t just hurt one person. It could signal systemic issues at a background check company that affects thousands or even millions.
5. Medical Debt Removed from Credit Reports—Finally
The Biden administration's new rule banning medical debt from credit reports will bring much-needed relief. Still, background check agencies may lag in compliance, creating delays or disputes.
When You Can Sue a Background Check Company
You have legal rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) if a background check company:
Publishes inaccurate or outdated information
Fails to verify or correct errors after you dispute them
Provides false reports to employers or landlords without your consent
You may be entitled to:
Actual damages (lost wages, emotional distress, rental deposits)
Statutory damages (up to $1,000 per violation)
Punitive damages for willful misconduct
Attorney’s fees and costs
How R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys Fight Back
At R23 Law, we’re committed to holding background check companies accountable. Our attorneys have deep experience litigating FCRA violations and have taken on major reporting agencies, including Checkr, HireRight, and others.We help clients:
Review inaccurate reports
File FCRA disputes
Pursue lawsuits if the report caused harm
Seek financial compensation for losses and stress
We handle FCRA cases on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we win for you.
Know Your Rights—Before the Damage Is Done
Background check errors can cost you more than just time. They can derail your:
Employment
Housing opportunities
Credit access
Professional licenses
Let our attorneys at R23 Law investigate your case and help restore your record, your finances, and your future.
📞 Get a Free Legal Review Today — We serve clients statewide in California.
