Make sure you protect your privacy while conducting an online job search. The following sections describe what steps you can take to ensure your privacy.
1. Don’t include a lot of personal contact information (name, address, phone numbers) on your resume
This might make it a little more difficult for an employer to reach you, but it also makes you look more Internet-savvy, and limits your exposure to identity theft.
2. Don’t post your resume on every job site
You should only post your resume on job sites where you are sure it will be protected. Focus on posting at a few really good sites rather than many mediocre sites.
3. Limit who can access your complete resume
Most job sites allow you to choose the level of visibility for your resume. The levels can include everyone, only employers, semi-private (employers can’t see your contact information) where the site notifies you if an employer is interested, and private (where no one can see your resume). Choose the option that makes the most sense for you.
4. Write down or track where and when you posted your resume on a job site or employer website
This also helps you remove your resume on each job site after you land your new job.
5. Don’t provide personal information to anyone
If a person can get a hold of your Social Security Number, he or she has everything they need to steal your identity.
The only time you should need to provide anyone with your Social Security Number is only when you are completing an IRS form after you have accepted a job offer.
7. Read website privacy policies
If the site does not have a privacy policy, do not use the site. There are many others out there.