Job applicants at 'Gates Ventures' claim explicit questioning of their past sexual experiences

Based on the information they shared, it seems they were queried about topics such as whether they had ever "danced for money," had explicit photos of themselves on a phone, their pornography preferences, and whether they ever had sexually transmitted infections.

The apparent underlying intent of these questions seems to have been to ascertain whether any aspects of the applicants' history could potentially expose them to blackmail.

"Concentric Advisors" assured "The Wall Street Journal" that recruitment practices for both men and women candidates are similar. They also emphasized that all their operations adhere to laws applicable in each state and country where they provide services.

The company went on to stress that it has never initiated questions about a candidate's sexual or medical history. However, such information, if linked to public records, could be voluntarily disclosed by interviewees.

Similarly, a spokesperson for "Gates Ventures" informed "The Wall Street Journal" that it requires all its contractors, who aid in pre-employment screening, to comply with relevant state and federally established regulations.

"Throughout our more than 15-year history, we have never received communication from any vendor or interviewer that inappropriate questions had surfaced during the verification process," assured the spokesperson.

"After meticulously reviewing our internal data, we can further affirm that no job offer has ever been withdrawn based on such types of information," the spokesperson added.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers to refrain from asking personal questions that fall under legal protection. This includes topics related to race, religion, gender identity, medical history, and disability.