i would assume this is a scam. the only time you need to provide ssn is when you are starting a new job -- you have already been hired -- and HR needs to photoc

i would assume this is a scam. the only time you need to provide ssn is when you are starting a new job -- you have already been hired -- and HR needs to photocopy your social security card. that's it. no other time. ever. (edit: ok, also other HR things like maybe when choosing your health insurance plan, etc) also you are under no compulsion to provide a recruiter (agency or internal) any information you don't want to. this includes prior salary, GPA, etc, etc.