Identity theft risks increase for new employees during onboarding

New employees are increasingly being targeted by identity thieves during the hiring and onboarding process. Scammers exploit the routine nature of requesting sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers and direct deposit details, to pose as legitimate employers.

Because every company utilizes different hiring procedures, new hires may find unfamiliar email requests or login portals suspicious, making them more susceptible to phishing attempts. Last year, over one million people reported identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Thieves use stolen data to open new lines of credit, make unauthorized purchases, or secure fraudulent employment.