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Chapter 2 Protecting Your Online Identity
Overview
Online Risks
Technology has streamlined the career-
search process. Applying for jobs online and
networking with others can now be done without
leaving your computer. However, it is important
to be diligent in protecting your privacy. Do
not be lulled into a false sense of security when
communicating with others online, especially with
those whom you do not know personally. This
also applies to submitting information to websites
that advertise job opportunities. In addition,
avoid opening e-mails that look suspicious.
Your online identity is valuable to you and
to criminals, so it should be protected. Many
times the goal of an online criminal is to steal
your identity. Identity theft is an illegal act that
involves stealing someone’s personal information
and using that information to commit theft or
fraud. There are many ways that your personal
information can be stolen without you knowing
it. A lost credit card or driver’s license is a
common way thieves are able to steal a person’s
identity. However, as computer technology
advances, online identity theft becomes more
prevalent. This form of fraud can happen any
time you use your computer.
As you apply for positions during your job
search, you will be requested to submit personal
information via websites. Use common sense
when deciding what personal details you share
The job-search process, as well as professional networking, can take place almost exclusively
online. As you establish your online presence, it is important to know what takes place on the Internet.
You must be aware of the ways in which you can prevent your identity from being stolen.
To prevent identity theft, do not provide information to people you do not know. Look out for
employment scams, and be aware that simply visiting a website or clicking on a hyperlink can jeopardize
your computer and the data that is stored on it. Create a security checklist to protect yourself and
your computer—then use it.
with strangers. Resist the urge to share too
much information that could be stolen. Avoid
listing a personal address on application forms
or e-mail. Instead, provide your professional
e-mail address as contact information. If a
company requests your Social Security number
before you are hired for a job, place all zeros in
the spaces provided. You are not under obligation
to provide this information anywhere online
when searching or applying for a job.
If you suspect your identity has been stolen,
visit the Federal Trade Commission website
at
www.idtheft.gov
for guidance. Time is of the
essence, so if this unfortunate situation happens
to you, act immediately.
Employment Scams
When you begin to apply for jobs online,
you will visit many websites that are unfamiliar.
While most of the sites will be legitimate, some
might be designed to gain personal information
for the purposes of compromising your identity.
Those who are trying to commit identity theft
have mastered the art of creating fake job ads to
lure visitors onto their websites.
If you post your résumé on a website, there
is a chance you will receive unsolicited e-mails
from companies asking you to apply for a job.
Research the company to make sure the posting
is legitimate before responding.