Using DBS Checks To Improve Online Safety & Prevent Grooming
We live in an age where more people communicate online than ever before.
While the internet is a powerful tool to connect us, it also poses its own unique set of risks and dangers. The risk to children and vulnerable adults is particularly high.
For example, many parents hire online tutors these days to help their children with their studies. The problem is – how can parents be sure that the tutor is safe to interact with their child? Additionally, how can organisations who hire online workers to interact with vulnerable people are not going to take advantage of them?
One way to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe online is through a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. In this blog post, we will take a look at the role that DBS Checks play in ensuring online safety and preventing grooming.
What is a DBS Check?
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a type of background check conducted by employers, organisations or individuals as part of their recruitment process or when providing specific services involving vulnerable groups. The check involves searching police records to ensure that the person being checked has no convictions or cautions that would make them unsuitable for certain roles or activities.
Why Do We Need DBS Checks for Online Safety?
Online safety is paramount to protecting people from potential predators and other types of harm on the internet.
A DBS check can provide peace of mind for parents who want to ensure that their children are not interacting with someone who may have a criminal record or be involved in grooming behaviour.
It can also provide reassurance for employers who recruit staff members online or provide services to vulnerable groups. A DBS check provides an added layer of security against potential risks posed by those accessing online platforms such as social media sites, forums, and chat rooms, etc.
How Can I Get a DBS Check?
You can apply for a basic disclosure certificate, or request that an employee or remote hire applies for one. You can sue any organisation that offers DBS checks.
This type of basic disclosure certificate will tell you if someone has any unspent convictions to disclose. This depends on the job role they are applying for or service they are providing. If you require more detailed information then you may be able to request a standard disclosure certificate. This will include details about spent convictions as well as cautions and warnings issued by police forces across the UK.
Summary
In today’s digital world, it is essential to take steps towards protecting ourselves from potential risks. Potential risks come from those using online platforms such as social media sites, forums, chat rooms etc.
A Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check helps provide an additional measure of security against these potential hazards by giving individuals, employers, and organisations an insight into the background of individuals they may be employing or working with.
Access to this information helps to prevent potentially dangerous situations from occurring due to lack of knowledge about someone’s background. Ultimately, this helps create safer environments both offline and online for us all.
Apply for a DBS check online today.
