Hackers have targeted jobsite Monster.

Monster has released a statement on its website warning its users that its database had been illegally accessed.

Certain contact and account data were taken, including Monster user IDs and passwords, email addresses, names, phone numbers and some basic demographic data. The information accessed does not include CVs, the statement added.

Monster says it may require its users to change their password when logging on to the site and recommends that users proactively change their password as an added precaution.

The statement also reminds users that it never sends unsolicited emails asking users to confirm usernames and passwords, nor will Monster ask users to download any software, “tool” or “access agreement” to use their Monster account.

Fola Tayo, head of professional standards at the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), says: “It is a sad fact of life that the internet is becoming more of a target for fraudsters and so jobseekers should be more diligent in how they use online services.

“Recruitment professionals are keen to play their part in raising awareness and flagging up examples of scams that can affect agencies, employers and workers.

“One of the lessons for jobseekers is that they should take extra precautions such as changing passwords on a regular basis and not revealing the most sensitive of information such as financial details.”

Visit http://my.monster.co.uk/securitycenterfor more information about internet fraud.