Recruiters asking for SSN#

Have you had this happen, where they send you an email build no relationship and then expect you to send your SSN email? I just find this practice very uncomfortable.

What do you recommend? I am thinking about linking into them first and then call their number and maybe give it over the phone. I'll cross check the phone against their claimed place of employment.

I just feel like this is crappy practice.

Thoughts?

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Comments

networker050184

Yes this seems to be a fairly common practice. Search the forums and you will find numerous threads on the topic.

m3zilla

I'm guessing this is a job for AT&T

ptilsen

I had it for Target and BlueCross MN. I dislike it, but for the right job I'll do it after I'm comfortable with the recruiter.

HLRS

i woulnt do it, sounds fishy

spicy ahi

I never give my SSN on digital media unless I absolutely have to (DoD clearances for example) I always let whoever I'm working with know I prefer to only deliver my SSN if an offer is tended. There really isn't a need for it anyway, as they can get all the information they want via other channels. You can never be too careful with something as important as that.

blargoe

I've never been asked for it that early in the process, to my recollection. I wouldn't give it then, either.

cyberguypr

For me this is one of those unacceptable things that I totally oppose, like a potential employer wanting to know my current salary.

htebazile

The only times I have been asked for it is to verify my DoD security clearance - sometimes they don't want to even interview you unless they can verify that you are cleared to the required level - because they don't want to waste their time. But aside from that, I haven't provided it until it's time to fill out all the HR forms after I've accepted a job offer.

I wouldn't want to offer up my ssn so early in the interviewing process, to a recruiter I've never spoken to.

paul78

There are actually very few legit reasons why any org would ever ask for an SSN. Financial services firms for example -largely are compelled by Patriot Act to verify who they do business with - and employers have IRS obligations.

A recruiter doesnt usually need it. That just seems strange. And even if the recruiter landed you a job, I would expect the hiring company to ask, not the thirdparty recruiter.

I personally would avoid doing business with that recruiter unless they have a good reason to ask for an SSN.