Protecting your identity has major buzz around the world. The unemployment rate continues to rise. The highest rate it's been at in a number of years. The economy is down, people are losing jobs, and identity thieves are on the prowl. Increased unemployment and a decreased economy have created additional targets for employment scams.
Scams that target unsuspecting employees and job applicants aren't new. These scams target two groups of people: those looking for jobs, and those who are employed. Employees can fall victim to identity theft when a person from their place of employment abuse access to personal information. It happens more often than most people realize. For example: your employer fires someone who has access to personnel records, and that person steals the personal information of the company's' personnel to get even. Having this becomes lucrative for them because they now sell your personal information to criminals who resell it to be used for multiple reasons including selling to illegal aliens.
The unemployed are in just as much danger. Scammers are using employment opportunities to gain access to your personal information. They place ads for jobs that don't exist and then try to coerce job searchers to provide personal and even financial information.
The good news is you can protect yourself from employment scams. If you or a loved one is actively seeking a job, you need to understand how to protect your identity. Here are some tips to help you avoid these scams that can lead to identity theft:
Guard your social security number. One employment scam that's often seen is when job seekers are asked to provide their social security number before an interview so the company can do a preliminary background check. If this happens to you, politely refuse. Not only is this something that should immediately cause concern for you, but it's illegal. Legitimate employers cannot do a background check until after they have interviewed you.
Never provide financial information. If a potential employer requests credit or bank account information for the purposes of doing a credit check, beware. A credit check can be completed with your name, address, and a social security number. It's not necessary for you to provide any account information at all.
Be attentive when applying for jobs online. Much communication passes between employers and potential employees online these days. Always pay attention to the email addresses of the people you're communicating with. Usually, official communications come from company email addresses, not personal email addresses.
Use caution when filling in online forms. Online forms are the perfect place for an identity thief to steal your personal information. These forms usually request private information such as driver's license number and Social Security Numbers. If you're filling out an application online (or even if you're just sending a resume online), be certain you're on a legitimate web site and that the site is secure.
Beware of companies that request your direct deposit information before you're formally hired. A scam that's common in the work-from-home arena is companies that promise simple jobs with big pay. All you have to do to get paid is provide direct deposit information. This information, however, gives them access to your bank account. Not a good idea when it comes to protecting your identity.
Do you want to take the risk of being a victim of the fastest growing crime? Would you like to have the best of the best when it comes to protecting your identity? They do not just give you a kit in the mail to do it yourself. You will have a licensed investigator assigned to you from the world's leading risk consulting company assist you every step of the way if you become a victim in any of the 5 areas of identity theft. http://www.Identity-Theft-411.info
Eric is a Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist (CITRMS). You may find more information at http://www.Identity-Theft-411.info
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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