Staying Safe Online as a Job Seeker

Online job searching has become increasingly popular and convenient. It’s more and more common to find that employers also prefer you apply online — maybe even interview online, too! However, it’s important to remember that the internet can also be a dangerous place. Here are some tips for staying safe when searching for a job online.

Don’t Overshare

First and foremost, be cautious about the information you share online. When creating a resume or filling out job applications, only include necessary personal information such as your name, contact information, and work experience. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your social security number or bank account details.

Choose the right email

It’s also a good idea to use a professional email address when applying for jobs. This can help protect your personal information and give a better impression to potential employers. Avoid using personal email addresses that include your full name or other identifying information.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for work while currently working, NEVER use your work email to talk to recruiters!

Say ‘no’ to scams

Be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true. If a job offer promises a high salary or easy work without an interview or application process, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate job offers will typically require some form of application or interview process. If you’re unsure about a job offer, do some research and verify the legitimacy of the company before accepting the offer or sharing any personal information.

Protection for your connection

Another way to stay safe when searching for a job online is to use a secure internet connection. Public Wi-Fi networks can be vulnerable to hacking, so it’s best to avoid using them when applying for jobs or sharing personal information. Instead, use a private and secure internet connection, such as a virtual private network (VPN), to protect your information.

Also be sure to completely log out of and clear the history on any devices you borrow for your job search, such as library computers.

Stay on safe sites

Finally, be careful about the websites you use to search for jobs. Stick to reputable job search websites that have a good reputation and take steps to protect your personal information. Avoid using websites that ask for personal information upfront or that seem untrustworthy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staying safe when searching for a job online is important. Be cautious about the information you share, use a professional email address and secure internet connection, be wary of suspicious job offers, and use reputable job search websites.

META can help you search safely online or off! We have secure machines that you can borrow like computers and printers, and helpful staff to show you how to use them safely! Book your free appointment today!

Staying Safe Online as a Job Seeker