Data Retention

MinistrySafe handles a significant amount of personal and professional data to provide accurate Background Checks. The sensitive nature of this information requires careful data management, including shorter data retention periods. 

Meeting Legal and Regulatory Requirements

MinistrySafe navigates a complex web of legal, regulatory and industry-standard requirements that govern the handling of personal data. These requirements are designed to protect individual’s privacy and ensure that outdated or irrelevant information does not unjustly influence employment decisions. By adopting a shorter data retention period, MinistrySafe ensures compliance with these laws, regulations and industry standards, thereby protecting MinistrySafe and our Members from potential liability.

Enhanced Data Security

Another critical purpose in maintaining a shorter data retention period is data security. The longer personal data is retained, the greater the risk of a data breach. Given the sensitive nature of information addressed by MinistrySafe (social security numbers, employment history, and criminal records), the consequences of a data breach can be severe. By limiting the retention period, MinistrySafe minimizes the volume of data at risk at any given time, thereby reducing the potential impact of a data breach.

Efficient Data Management

Efficient data management is a significant factor driving a shorter data retention period. Storing large amounts of data requires significant resources and can also impede our ability to quickly and accurately process new Background Checks. By regularly purging outdated data, MinistrySafe has the ability to streamline operations, leading to faster turnaround times and improved service quality for Members.

Ensuring Accuracy and Relevance

Accuracy and relevance of information provided by MinistrySafe is crucial. Information about individuals can change rapidly – new criminal records may be added, names change, and employment histories evolve. By maintaining a shorter data retention period, MinistrySafe can better ensure that our reports are based on the most current and relevant data available. 

Commitment to Excellence

Our data retention policy reflects our commitment to legal compliance, data security, efficient operations, and the provision of accurate, relevant information. These practices promote excellence and protect the rights and privacy of individuals. 

To learn more about downloading your Ministry’s Background Check data, click here. 

To read MinistrySafe’s Data Retention Policy, click here. 

Learn more about record retention here.