Most companies perform background checks on employees at the outset as part of the application / new hire process.  A number of background check companies are now offering “continuous screening” or re-screening services as a risk management tool where background checks are performed on all employees annually or semi-annually.  Continuous background checks are gaining popularity among employers.  In theory, this will catch items that were missed during the new hire process as well as criminal events that have transpired since the employee was hired.  This is viewed as a risk management tool to protect against employee theft, embezzlement, fraud, violence, etc.