“I can’t fault Zinc really, it’s been a seamless process. We don’t even have to think about it really, which is a good thing.”
People Operations Specialist
Adverse Media Checks
Zinc’s adverse media screening helps you quickly find reputational risks before making key hiring decisions. We scan global news sources to uncover any negative coverage of candidates, transforming due diligence into a strategic advantage.
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Why conduct an adverse media check?
An adverse media check reveals if a candidate has been involved in any publicised incidents or controversies that could impact your business. These checks are particularly critical for high-trust roles in sectors such as finance, healthcare, education, and government.
By identifying red flags early, you reduce the risk of reputational damage and regulatory exposure. Zinc’s globally compliant media check process is designed to support consistent, risk-conscious hiring decisions across all levels of your organisation.
“I can’t shout about Zinc enough, because it really has revolutionised the way we work. The level of time and effort we need to put in has dramatically reduced.”
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Meg Nicol
Talent Partner
Benefits of Zinc’s adverse media checks
first impression
One-stop process for candidates
Our adverse media check experience is fast, mobile-friendly, and simple to complete. A positive first impression with your candidate builds trust, and shows commitment to thorough, transparent hiring practices.
Candidate Intelligence
Detailed reports with global media coverage
Zinc provides detailed media reports based on hundreds of reputable local and global sources. This provides comprehensive insight into a candidate’s media footprint, helping you spot potential reputational risks before onboarding.
How our adverse media check process works
Our automated adverse media check system delivers fast results without compromising quality or accuracy. Here’s how the process works:
Initiate a check by entering candidate information into the Zinc platform.
The candidate gives informed consent to proceed with the check.
Zinc scans hundreds of trusted media outlets and news sources, flagging relevant results and delivering insights in seconds.
FAQs about our adverse media checks
Find answers to common questions about our adverse media checks.
What are adverse media checks?
An adverse media check is a search for any negative news stories or reports that may have been written about a potential candidate. They can reveal any reputational, financial, or business harm that could come from hiring a candidate.
Why are adverse media checks important?
Adverse media checks are important because they ensure you’re not hiring a candidate that will cause your business financial, reputational, or business harm. They also help you comply with regulations like Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC). They’re particularly important for individuals in high risk roles in financial services.
What is an example of adverse media?
Adverse media is any new article or report that indicates risk or concerns. It includes:
- News articles reporting criminal convictions
- Legal filings
- Reports of criminal activity like embezzling, fraud, money laundering, or other illegal acts
- Articles about regulatory violations
- Reports on companies that failed to comply with local laws
How does Zinc handle data privacy and comply with relevant regulations when conducting adverse media checks?
Our employee background check software handles data privacy with utmost care, complying with relevant regulations, including GDPR, ISO27001, UK DIATF, and other data protection laws. It returns results from a location-sensitive and fully compliant range of sources to give you complete peace of mind.
What sources does your software use to gather adverse media information, and does it cover both national and international publications?
Zinc gathers adverse media information from a wide range of sources, including national and international publications, news databases, and online resources.
How does Zinc handle data privacy and comply with relevant regulations when conducting checks?
Our employee background check software handles data privacy with utmost care, complying with relevant regulations, including GDPR, ISO27001, UK DIATF, and other data protection laws. It returns results from a location-sensitive and fully compliant range of sources to give you complete peace of mind.
How user-friendly is your software for both the recruiter and the candidate? Are there tutorials or customer support options available?
At Zinc, a seamless experience is at the heart of everything we do. From an intuitive, mobile-first platform for candidates to live chat and email support, we’re always here to help.
Learn more about how Zinc supports a great candidate experience here.
How quickly can your software complete an adverse media check?
The completion time for an adverse media check depends on the complexity and volume of information available. At Zinc, adverse media checks are typically completed within minutes.
Loved by customers and candidates
“I can’t shout about Zinc enough, because it really has revolutionised the way we work. The level of time and effort we need to put in has dramatically reduced.”
Talent Partner
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HR Operations Specialist
“Zinc almost feels too good to be true, it's so affordable, smart, quick, and hassle-free.”
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“It's quick and it just happens.”
Compliance coordinator
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