Intelius is an online public records company, offering a variety of services to both consumers and businesses. Known primarily for its background search service, Intelius is at the forefront of providing background searches for dating, specifically online dating. For a price of $39.95, a background search of public records can provide a user with information on a potential mate.

Intelius was founded in 2002 by ex-Microsoft executive, Naveen Jain and Infospace co-worker, Kevin Marcus. The company is currently based in Bellevue, Washington. Nearly 3 million users visit Intelius each month, most of whom are female (57%). Over 80% of its users are Caucasian, and 74% have no children, which is a reflection of its use predominantly as a dating screening tool.

In addition to background checks for dating, Intelius markets its services to landlords, employers, and other businesses. By providing credit checks, criminal and sex offender checks, and reverse phone directory services, Intelius utilizes its valuable database to provide many types of information at a price. Consumers can use their free services – “People Search” and “Email Search”, as well as obtain limited information by entering a social security number, cellular phone number, or address.