I saw this on our local NBC news affiliate last night. It appears that applicants for open positions at Starbucks at Cleveland Hopkins Airport were having their identities stolen. Candidates were submitting their job applications which included their Social Security Numbers. An employee was using that Personally Identifiable Information (PII) to compromise their identities while racking up over $115,000 in fraudulent credit card charges. Many employers only ask for this critical information when a decision to hire is made and a background check is ready to be run. The story supports the fact that background checks have been on the rise since the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Northeast Ohio: Starbucks job applications used in identity theft
CLEVELAND — We’ve heard identity theft cases involving dumpster dives, over the shoulder wandering eyes in the checkout line, and even toddlers targeted for their personal information.
The U.S. Attorney has an indictment against a woman that allegedly stole from the unemployed. Information was lifted from where they’re most vulnerable — job applications.
For Hyde Park Restaurants, the process of protecting employee identities starts with the application.
“What we’re looking for is past job experiences and personal references,” General Manager Jason Crawford said.
Private information, such as a birthdate or Social Security number, is obtained only after an applicant has been offered the job. Such sensitive documentation never stays on the premises.
