When searching for a job online, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety. Evaluating the website, performing a search on the company's website, and considering contacting the company directly are all great ways to make sure you're not getting scammed. Additionally, it's important to delete sensitive information from your resume, such as your home address, and use a forwarding phone number instead of your real phone number. When applying for jobs online, it's not necessary to provide contact information such as cell phone numbers, home addresses, and personal emails.
Doing so can be dangerous and should be avoided. You can also set up a specific email account for your job search to further limit unwanted applications. It's also important to review your social media profiles to make sure you're staying safe. When you find a job you're interested in, confirm the employer's identity with an in-person interview or video call.
Don't just accept a job via email, phone, or a chat application. Researching the employer online before applying for a job is also essential. Once you find employment, it's a good idea to delete your resume from the sites and job boards where you posted it. According to the FBI, fraudsters take advantage of people who apply for jobs by creating false job offers to obtain personal information.