When code becomes the gatekeeper to opportunity, its security becomes non-negotiable. As job platforms scale rapidly, especially in a country where digital literacy is still uneven, they’ve become prime targets for cybercriminals. The same technology built to democratize access is now being manipulated to exploit the very users it promised to uplift. This silent crisis is escalating, and it demands a tech-first, not just a policy-first, response.
At the heart of the issue lies trust or the lack of it. Threats like fake employer accounts, deepfake interview calls, and credential phishing are no longer fringe cases. Cybercriminals are using automation and social engineering to exploit platform vulnerabilities at scale. Traditional static defences like simple email verifications or CAPTCHA are no match for dynamic, evolving attacks. We need systems that detect intent, not just form.
This calls for a layered defence approach, driven by behavioural analytics, device fingerprinting, and AI-powered anomaly detection. Job platforms must build tech that doesn’t just react but anticipates flagging suspect listings in milliseconds, learning from fraud patterns, and adapting in real-time. It’s not about building a wall; it’s about building an immune system. Secure architecture must become the foundation, not an afterthought.
Equally critical is secure data handling. With millions sharing resumes, IDs, and contact details, encryption standards must be airtight. But more than just storing data safely, platforms must ensure that no one from engineers to external partners has unnecessary access. Zero-trust architecture, access audits, and breach simulations should be routine, not rare. For a tech-led company, privacy isn’t a checkbox but a continuous commitment.
Finally, cyber safety must be part of the product experience. Pop-ups warning about suspicious links, sandboxed chat environments, and real-time fraud alerts can save thousands from exploitation. It’s not just about building smarter platforms but also building smarter users. The future of work is digital but if we want that future to be fair, it must also be secure.
The article has been written by Moiz Arsiwala, CTO & Co-founder of WorkIndia
