National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a program used in the United States to screen individuals before they purchase firearms. Operated by the FBI, it checks criminal records, mental health status, and other relevant information to determine if someone is legally prohibited from buying a gun. When a person attempts to buy a firearm from a licensed dealer, the dealer submits the buyer's information to NICS. The system quickly responds, allowing the dealer to proceed with the sale or deny it based on the findings, thereby helping to enhance public safety.