IT security focuses on technology that stops hacking, phishing, worms, viruses and denial-of-service attacks. But security should extend to something much more human and personal -- employees. IT systems don't destroy other systems, take equipment or steal intellectual property, but people do.

So how can your organization reduce risk? Use technology to give your hiring managers a firewall against people who could be worms in geek clothing. The need for background checks on job candidates and current employees is growing. Dynamic working environments, a regulatory and litigious atmosphere, and business risk all play a significant role.

Information is power. IT workers have access to electronic storage systems, e-mail, data, records and personal information. Proper assessment, screening and background checking for new IT hires is absolutely critical to make sure they have the requisite qualifications and credentials, integrity, honesty and behaviors.

Preemployment background screening is a key way for employers to meet due-diligence requirements to hire safe, qualified employees and to reduce negligent hiring liability and workplace violence. But it should not stop there. Postemployment background checks or rechecks have emerged as an equally critical practice to monitor safe and legal activities and mitigate ongoing risk.

Background-checking companies estimate that between 7% and 12% of all applicants are turned away: About 5% to 6% are because of criminal issues, 2% to 4% because of false employment or education and about 1% to 4% based on motor vehicle record or credit problems.