Detectives are asking for the public's help in identifying suspects responsible for stealing personal information from unsuspecting job applicants in the Los Angeles area.

The suspects are accused of posing as employees at local businesses and sending out employment applications online.

Applicants were asked to pay an upfront background fee and to submit key identification factors such as a Driver's License and Social Security.

Detectives were tipped off by the local businesses after they had people respond to the positions that were promised by the scam.

They want to remind job applicants that legitimate businesses would not request any fees from prospective applicants and that people should be cautious when posting sensitive information like a Social Security number online.

"Due to the desperate times and record high unemployment in California, the LAPD recommends caution when applying for employment on-line," LAPD officials said in a statement Monday.

"Soliciting applicants online is not the protocol of most businesses seeking potential applicants."

Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim or knows someone affected by the scam is asked to make a report at your local police department.

During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters can also texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S) with the letters "LAPD" or go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.