What kind of data is stored on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)?

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is specifically designed to facilitate background checks for individuals seeking to purchase firearms. The primary purpose of this system is to identify individuals who are prohibited from acquiring firearms due to various legal restrictions, such as felony convictions, restraining orders, or mental health adjudications. This ensures that firearms do not end up in the hands of those who may pose a risk to themselves or others.

The information stored in NICS primarily pertains to the status of individuals regarding their eligibility to own firearms, rather than holding personal data on all citizens or records on unrelated matters such as traffic violations or corporate financial data. This focus on individuals who may be prohibited from purchasing firearms aligns with federal laws aimed at promoting public safety and preventing gun violence.