Did you know that identity theft breaches constitute about 74% of all cyber attack incidents? The result of a personal data breach can be devastating, entailing financial ruin. Since cybercrime is at an all-time high, everyone should learn how to protect their personal data from being hacked. This is especially true of job seekers.
Job Searching Could Put You at Risk of Identity Theft
Individuals who are actively seeking employment often complete online applications/upload resumes to employer websites, and provide sensitive data such as birthdates and family names to job search platforms. These actions, some being necessary for job seeking, would put anyone at risk of having his or her personal data hacked. This doesn’t mean that people should stop job hunting. What it does mean is that job seekers should keep their personal data safe and minimize the threat of identity theft.
How to Keep Your Personal Data Secure During a Job Search
For the unemployed, using the Internet to find a job is inevitable. Having personal data stolen doesn’t have to be when these three tips are implemented:
1. Don’t provide sensitive data digitally — At some point in the hiring process, an employer will need to gather sensitive data such as your social security number and birth date. Norton Security said that a legitimate employer will get this type information in writing, not digitally. Norton wrote, “These bits of information are highly prized security features that can prove useful for attackers attempting to steal or compromise your identity. Do not willingly give this information away, especially on the Internet.”
2. Connect to a secure wireless network — When job searching and providing personal information over the Internet, be sure to use a secure wireless connection. Public Wifi is probably not the best option in this instance. Also, check to see if your wireless device has the latest security software updates. Once your anti-virus software is updated and you are connected to a secure wireless network, you are good to go.
3. Ensure a potential employer is legitimate — Before you fill out an online application or provide personal information of any kind to a potential employer, confirm that that employer is legitimate. CBS Money Watch quoted Brian Lapidus, senior vice president with risk management firm Kroll Advisory Solutions: “Make sure you review the privacy policy and user terms and agreements before you post your resume on a website. When in doubt, check with online resources such as The World Privacy Forum’s Consumer’s Guide to Online Job Sites.”
When searching for employment, remember to keep sensitive data to yourself, connect to a secure wireless network when uploading your resume, and ensure potential employers are real before providing them with personal information. These actions will keep your personal data safe and sound while you scout out your next job.