This will be a short diary, but I need to get some information.
I was recently in a Staples store to make a purchase and while I was there I inquired about a position there (Yes I'm that desperate). I was told to go to Staples website. Well, to make a long story short. I went to the website and selected the link to fill out the application. The first fill in the blank part asks you for your Social Security Number... and that is where I have a problem. Follow me below.
First. I have NEVER given my SSN to anyone prior to receiving an offer for employment. I think it is totally unreasonable for a employer to expect this.
Second. I don't like being treated like a criminal. What next body cavity searches?
Third. Having been in the the IT field for many moons and I have developed a strong skepticism about the reliability of companies like Staples keeping my personal information secure on their websites.
My question - Is this legal? If not who do I talk to to start a class action suit? And if it is legal. What are we going to do to change that?
BTW - this isn't just limited to Staples. I've seen the same practice with places like Border's also.
UPDATE: To make it perfectly clear, I have no problem giving an employer information after I receive an offer employment. An offer can hinge on the meeting the terms of employment such as - Proof of citizenship, clear criminal record, etc.