Fortune magazine has a warning for you: ID thieves are trying to hack your job hunt. As you float resumes in cyberspace and apply to numerous job sites and listings, don't be surprised if some "helpful" HR rep calls you up, compliments you on your experience, then asks for personal details like your Social Security number in order to continue the employment process. You may be smart enough not to divulge your vital stats over the phone to a stranger, but not everyone is as savvy as you.
The article reminds us that an identity is stolen every three seconds, and nearly 10 million people in the U.S. had their identities ripped off in 2008, a 47 percent jump from 2007. Therefore, follow these suggestions.
- Don't put personal data on your resume.
- Proceed cautiously online.
- Know how to spot bogus job ads.
- Keep a detailed record of your job search activity.
- Limit the amount of information you post on social networking sites.
- Be proactive. Don't fork over your details so easily. Ask to call them back directly, and see what happens.
-- Don Willmott