Applying for Jobs Online - A Word of Caution

Applying for jobs could never have been easier. Rather than crawling through the jobs sections of various newspapers and magazines, candidates can now search out their ideal job online, or search job search sites until one takes their fancy.

Applying is now nearly at a click of a button. No more copying out CVs, no more printing, no more envelopes, no more stamps, and no more trips to the post box. Several job applications can be made at the same time with advanced email facilities. The same cover letter and CV can be emailed to dozens of employees at the click of a mouse, with just the contact information being changed for each potential employer.

While it is easier than ever to apply for jobs, job seekers have been warned about sharing sensitive personal data with potential employers, as a sting operation setup by an online CV provider persuaded 107 people into submitting their CVs for a fake Office Manager position.

The data that was collected contained information which left the individuals vulnerable to identity theft. 61 CVs contained enough information to apply for a credit card, and this experiment has been a big help in making job seekers aware of the dangers of sharing their personal information.

The CVs which were uploaded through the website contained on average eight different pieces of information that would be useful to a fraudster. The most common being full address and date of birth. One application included a passport and national insurance number. The most useful items to those wishing to commit fraud are date of birth, marital status and place of birth.

With the smallest amount of effort, candidates had the opportunity to learn the truth. The Denis Atlas website, which is the fake company iProfile used to advertise for an Office Manager, pointed out the fraudulent nature of the job advert and explained what the experiment was testing.

One click through to the company's website was all the research necessary to discover the fraud. And many applicants didn't even click through to the employer website before submitting CVs full of personal information suitable to committing identity fraud.

The lesson to learn from this, is be careful when sharing personal information online. You might be in a hurry to submit your CV but your date of birth, marital status or place of birth is not really relevant to most CVs and could lead to your identity being stolen. Never include your passport or national insurance number.

John McE writes articles on a number of subjects including Jobseeking in Cornwall. For the best jobs in the South-West, check out JobsSW.

Article Source: http://www.c3careerarticles.com

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