The Risks of Online Job Searches: Minimize Your Risk of Identity Theft

Thousands of job seekers go on line everyday to seek work and hopefully land their dream career. But, searching for a job on line puts you at risk for identity theft and it can occur in a number of ways. The Internet is one of the best tools for the unemployed when it comes to job searches but you have to be smart about what you reveal on line. From security breaches to viruses, on line job seekers are at risk for identity theft. Learn about some of the most common scams, and ways to protect yourself while searching for a job on line.

The Internet can be a great tool for employers and those seeking work if used properly. As with any business conducted over the Internet, there are certain guidelines you should always follow. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is, and this is the most important thing to remember while searching for a job on line. No one is going to hand you a job without interviewing you, you're not going to make thousands of dollars building magnets or stuffing envelopes, and employers generally won't ask for personally identifiable information before you've met. If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

RESUMES
Resumes are often a source of trouble for on line job seekers because they contain way too much information. Before posting your resume on line think about the information you've included. Never include your date of birth, drivers license number, bank account information, or your tax payer identification number (EIN) on your resume. A resume is meant to highlight your skills and give employers some reference to your employment history. Your resume should not include your age, sex, disabilities, professional license number, social security number, eye or hair color, marital status, and should not include school graduation dates.