19.03.2026

First Advantage releases 2026 Global Trends Report: Priorities and outlook from HR leaders and job seekers

First Advantage Corporation, a global software and data company, has released its 2026 Global Background Screening Trends Report in partnership with ClearlyRated. Drawing on insights from more than 5,000 CHROs, HR leaders, and job seekers, across nine industries and five global regions, this study captures the latest hiring and onboarding realities and priorities.

Research results include the most up-to-date industry data on employee lifecycle screening, hiring speed, accuracy and efficiency, and the use of AI in the recruiting and hiring process.

Key findings from the 2026 Global Trends Report include:

Rising Identity-Fraud Driving Employee Lifecycle Screening and Identity Verification

Escalating identity fraud, including job-related scams and widespread misrepresentation, is pushing employers to expand screening across the entire employee lifecycle. Eighty-nine per cent of HR hiring managers plan to add additional background screening and identity verification solutions within the next two years to keep pace with rising risk.

Risk and Speed are now dual mandates, not trade-offs

Risk is a top screening priority, but slow hiring processes continue to cause candidate drop-off. Employers are accelerating automation and integrations to deliver faster, more efficient screening.

Global & Flexible workforces are reshaping screening strategies, including the need for operational simplicity

More than 60 per cent of global employers report growth in candidates with multi-country or multi-location work histories: Global applicants and the shift toward gig-friendly models are adding complexity to verification requirements. Employers are simplifying through vendor consolidation and streamlined screening processes.

AI is Transforming Hiring and Creating New Risks

AI is now widely used by employers and candidates, introducing both efficiencies and new avenues for fraud. Organisations are adopting advanced identity verification and AI-driven tools to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Joelle Smith, President, commented: “The hiring landscape is undergoing significant change, driving employers to prioritise risk mitigation as AI becomes a major catalyst for both innovation and emerging vulnerabilities. Our 2026 Global Trends Report makes it clear that organisations need smarter, simpler, and more secure screening and identity verification processes across the entire employee lifecycle.”

Explore the full 2026 Global Trends Report here.

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