Local online job sites are downplaying the threat of identity theft following the statement released by US-based Monster.com that phoney job listings that are being used to steal personal information from job seekers.
Monster.com's New Zealand and Australia product and marketing vice president
Diana Kahui says it is not warning users about phoney job listings because it happens "very rarely".
Kahui says jobs posted locally are legitimate and staff are pro-active in making sure clients have real jobs for candidates.
Kahui says the local branch of Monster.com has not come across any instances of phoney job listings, adding that even if such a listing slipped through, it would be detected quickly due to "high levels of service".
"Users can choose the level of confidentiality they require. In some instances, the only way an employer can contact a candidate is through an encrypted mail box," she says.
New Zealand-based online job site NetCheck is also downplaying the risk. Marketing manager Stephanie Ely says those wanting to view resumes online must buy an ad to gain access.
"You have to have an active, live ad with us in order to get access to Headhunter, and it's an additional cost on top of the ad. In that respect they do get vetted, yes."
NetCheck staff go over any ad submitted to the site to ensure it is genuine and the company has not had any complaints from end users of the site about fake ads being placed.
NetCheck also hides personal details, such as current employer, from prospective employers.
"Our resumes are anonymous as well which helps."