Job seekers are being approached by phone and email by third parties who claim to be doing background checks on behalf of a potential employer. They insist that the background check is necessary before the job seeker can be considered for any opening. They then ask for social security number, checking account number and other personal data.
Do not give your personal data to any third party claiming to perform a background check. First, call the company where you have applied for a job and ask for verification that this is a legitimate background check. In most cases, the company will be surprised and shocked to learn that a third party has contacted you.
In addition, if your resume includes personal data such as your social security number, height, weight, marital status or medical history, please remove it. Companies do not want or expect this information and it increases your risk of identity theft.
Because I am a Certified Advanced Resume Writer and a Certified Federal Resume Writer, I can advise you on exactly which information belongs on your resume—and which information should never appear there. Contact me today.
