Looking for a Summer Job?

You may already be aware of this. If so, great. If not, be forewarned. Also, let your friends and family members know about these tips as well:

Looking For a Summer Job? Watch Out
for Online Scams That Steal Info
It's an unfortunate predicament of people looking online for summer jobs: in order to get the work, you have to provide information about yourself. That in turn leaves you at the potential mercy of scammers posing as legitimate employers. Here are some tips to make sure the online job-seeking process results in you gaining a gig, instead of losing your identity.

1. Be suspicious of emails telling you you're being considered for a job you didn't apply for. If you get a mass email from someone who says they saw your resume online and thought you might be a good fit, but they need more detailed personal information—or they need you to fill out an online application—be very suspicious. These days legitimate employers don't need to solicit job applicants. Job-seekers are beating down their doors already.

2. Don't give away too much too soon. While it's true that many legitimate employers will conduct a background search and even investigate your credit history before offering you a job, it's generally the last step in the hiring process. If a potential employer asks for your Social Security number, a photocopy of your ID, or other sensitive personal information before they'll even schedule an initial interview, it's probably a scam.

3. Be wary of anybody who asks for a fee upfront. Whether it's a job placement fee, a fee for access to jobs overseas, or a fee for the "inside scoop" on federal jobs, if you pay it you'll probably be lining the pockets of a crook. For one thing, there is no inside scoop on federal jobs—they're all publicly announced. Additionally, no legitimate job placement service will guarantee you a job in exchange for a fee.