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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNot all background information requires someone’s consent<\/a>. Public records are available to anyone who knows where to look. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The keyword here is “public.” If the government has made information available to the public, you can access it legally. You don’t need to ask permission to look up someone’s criminal record or see if they own property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, there’s a significant distinction between public records and private information. Credit reports, employment history, and detailed personal data typically require written consent under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n Before you pay for anything, try a simple Google search. Type the person’s name in quotes along with their city or other identifying information. You might find social media profiles, news articles, or professional listings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t forget to check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Free Methods to Research Someone’s Background<\/h2>\n\n
Start With Search Engines<\/h3>\n\n\n