Scammers prey upon the innocent. The scammers set their sites upon those who are searching for something, and if you're searching the internet and applying for jobs online, you're a prime target.

The internet has made job hunting easier. Websites like Monster, HotJobs and various others help make the connections between job hunters and potential employers. However, even legitimate job hunting websites have been hit with scams and you must know a few basic protection tips so you can avoid job hunting scams.

The number of unemployed workers looking for jobs has increased dramatically, that's a given that scammers are aware of, so the job hunting scams abound with phony emails sent to millions advertising jobs. Phony emails that offer you government jobs, stimulus related jobs and work from home jobs are all part of the job hunting scam plan to get your vital information and steal your identity. Don't respond to these emails offering jobs. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Another job hunting scam being utilized is the offer of a phony job interview. An email from some corporation offering you a job interview in a distant state may sound legit, but of course the corporation won't pay for your travel but will however offer discounted travel arrangements if you book your travel through their corporate office. Don't fall for this job hunting scam, there is no interview, no job, no corporation and no discounted travel. It's just a way the scammers have of obtaining your credit card information.

As I mentioned earlier, even the legitimate job seeking websites have been hit with scams, so be on your guard when filling out job applications and sending out resumes.

Protect yourself while you look for a job by never including your personal information on any online application or sending out resumes via email. Include only your email address and cell phone number and ask a potential employer to contact you to arrange a one-on-one interview.

Always save any email exchanges while you are looking for a job, just in case something sounding legit turns out to be a job hunting scam. You will have proof so you can plan a recourse action.