Background verification glossary
Short, clear definitions of the terms used in Indian background verification and in HireScore.
Background verification (BGV)
The process of confirming a candidate’s identity, education, employment, address and public records against independent sources, usually with the candidate’s consent.
HireScore
A portable, candidate-owned verification status built on background verification. It shows a ring, a tier, a hire-ready status and a last-updated date.
Verification ring
The circular graphic on a HireScore that fills as identity, employment, education and integrity checks are completed and cleared.
Hire Ready
A HireScore status meaning no flags were found in the completed checks. It is not a recommendation to hire.
Review Needed
A HireScore status meaning a flag or a pending check needs a closer look before a decision.
Not Cleared
A HireScore status meaning a serious discrepancy was found. The employer decides what to do next, ideally after hearing from the candidate.
UAN (Universal Account Number)
A 12-digit number issued by the EPFO that stays with an employee across jobs and links their EPF accounts.
EPF passbook
A record of provident fund contributions by month and employer, which verifiers use to cross-check employment dates.
Relieving letter
A letter from a former employer confirming that the employee has been relieved of duties, usually stating the last working day.
Experience letter
A letter from a former employer stating the role held and period of service.
Form 16
A certificate issued by an employer showing tax deducted at source from an employee’s salary during a financial year.
Discrepancy
A mismatch between what a candidate has claimed and what a source confirms, such as a date, designation or degree.
Pre-offer verification
Verifying shortlisted candidates before an offer is made, rather than after acceptance.
Data fiduciary
Under India’s DPDP Act, 2023, the organisation that decides why and how personal data is processed.
Data principal
Under India’s DPDP Act, 2023, the individual whose personal data is being processed.
Prefer longer explanations? Browse the guides.