Key Findings Grade C

Indeed is the largest job search platform and offers relatively straightforward terms compared to competitors. Resume visibility controls are available, though data retention practices and third-party sharing still warrant attention.

Resume Database Sharing Severe

Resumes uploaded to Indeed become part of a searchable database accessible to employers and recruiters. Your "public" resume may be viewed by thousands of companies you never applied to, including your current employer's recruiters.

Source: Privacy Policy, Resume Visibility

Long Data Retention Moderate

Indeed retains your data for years after you stop using the service. Even after account deletion, some data may be retained for "legitimate business purposes" including legal compliance and fraud prevention.

Source: Privacy Policy, Data Retention

Application Tracking Shared Moderate

Your job search activity, application history, and engagement patterns are shared with employers. Companies can see when you viewed their jobs and how you interact with listings.

Source: Terms of Service, Employer Services

Third-Party Ad Partners Moderate

Indeed shares data with advertising partners for targeted ads. Your job search behavior influences the ads you see across the internet, potentially revealing your employment status to other platforms.

Source: Privacy Policy, Advertising

Arbitration Required Mild

Disputes must be resolved through binding arbitration with class action waiver. Opt-out available within 30 days of creating an account.

Source: Terms of Service, Dispute Resolution

What This Means for You

Indeed's size makes it unavoidable for many job seekers, but its scale also means your resume reaches more eyes than you might expect. The "make resume public" feature should be used carefully—especially if you're employed and job searching confidentially.

The platform's data practices are fairly standard for the industry. Indeed at least provides some transparency about what's collected and offers controls over resume visibility. However, the long data retention means your job search history persists even after you've found employment.

Best In Category

Indeed earns the highest score among job platforms due to better-than-average privacy controls and clearer terms. Recommended for job seekers who need broad visibility, but carefully review resume privacy settings before uploading. Consider keeping your resume "private" and applying directly rather than making it searchable if confidentiality matters. Delete your account after finding employment if you want to minimize data retention.