---
title: What a Prescribed Purpose Means in Practice
description: "A prescribed purpose is the reason you are performing a check. In practice, this means the purpose selected in the system should match the real business reason for the search. ## Why this matters - It supports lawful and responsible…"
url: "https://j-cred.co.za/zh/helpcenter/what-a-prescribed-purpose-means-in-practice/"
updated: "2026-03-30"
category: "Compliance & Responsible Use"
---

# What a Prescribed Purpose Means in Practice

A prescribed purpose is the reason you are performing a check. In practice, this means the purpose selected in the system should match the real business reason for the search.

## Why this matters

- It supports lawful and responsible use of information.
- It helps prevent misuse of sensitive results.
- It creates a stronger audit trail for your organisation.
- It helps support and review teams understand the context of the search.

**Rule:** If the purpose changes, run a new search with the correct purpose instead of reusing the old result.

**Need help?** Email [support@kto.co.za](mailto:support@kto.co.za) or [support@j-cred.co.za](mailto:support@j-cred.co.za), call [+27 10 224 0589](tel:+27102240589) during 9AM to 5PM CAT, or log a clear support request with your Search ID and internal reference where applicable.