Fifty years ago, do you think anyone applying for a job had said, “I’d better protect my personal data when applying for a job”? Probably not. Long gone are the days of walking into a place of business, filling out an application, and getting hired on the spot. While the internet has been an enormous boon, applying for jobs in the technological age has become more complex and even dangerous.
Perhaps one of the most significant issues we face today is the threat of having one’s personal data stolen. The last thing you need is to have your identity stolen and used in malicious ways that could jeopardize you. It can be difficult navigating your way online while protecting your data, but that’s why we’re here.
The following are ways you can protect your personal data when applying for jobs:
Avoid Open Networks
We’ve all been there. You’re sitting with your laptop in a restaurant or coffee shop, and you check for an open Wi-Fi network. While it can be super convenient, it’s something to be mindful about. In 2021, the number of data breaches jumped 68 percent from the previous year, which had been an all-time highest total, but since then, that percentage has continued to grow.
Stick to a Secure Network
Whenever you’re dealing with your personal data while applying for a job, it’s best to do so on a secure network. The chances of something terrible happening to your information is slim, but that’s a risk you should avoid. When using open Wi-Fi, use it for mundane activities, and avoid job hunting or filling out job applications that include personal information about yourself.
Steer Clear of Personal Information
When you’re including personal information on your resume, it’s best to avoid info that can be used to hack your online accounts. Security questions have become a new norm to thwart the chances of someone trying to access your information. Avoid including anything on your resume or application that could be obtained to answer your security questions.
What Not To Include
- Birthdate
- Home address
- Social security number
What To Include:
- A professional email
- Phone number
- LinkedIn profile
Employers will need your basic information to run criminal background checks. It’s not out of the ordinary if they ask for more details once you’ve been hired. However, it’s always prudent to look into what information will be needed.
Use Trusted Websites
Websites like LinkedIn have become the go-to for job applications and have proven to be well-known and trusted. With more than 850 million members worldwide, it strives to protect the personal data of its members. It’s a safe bet that if you don’t recognize the website or company, you should proceed with caution. In most cases, you can copy and paste the job ad into Google. If the job posting is legitimate, you may want to find another way to apply by using a more reputable site.
Stick With Reputable Employers
It’s crucial to trust your instincts. If a potential job looks too good to be true or the company’s website looks suspicious, avoid applying right away. It’s important to do your research on the company you want to apply to. These days, people can create a template website with a fake job ad for unethical purposes, like stealing your personal data. If you have any suspicions, do the research. It might save you in the end.
It’s getting easier for people to breach and steal personal data from others, especially when information is being swapped back and forth online. That’s why you need protection now more than ever. Follow the example from backup and disaster recovery services in Winnipeg, and get yourself solid network security to prevent your data from being stolen.