[the-alchemist]

Rare, but companies can shit on you if they ever get called during a background check.

e.g., * "Hi, I'm calling about Alice. Can you confirm Alice's title and start and end dates of her position?" * Started X, left Y. They're not allowed on the premises anymore."

Generally, companies avoid this because it exposes them to lawsuits, but all it takes is one HR rep who doesn't know the company policy.

[ianai]

A lot can be said by just tone of voice without saying anything incriminating, for that matter.

[throwaway75787]

"Let me check what I am allowed to say about Alice."

[ianai]

Or just the kind of tone like you’re giving them a wet tissue.