I did a phone interview with the Ascentium recruiter, who was professional, informative, and asked good questions. Three days after my phone interview I found out that a member of the non-HR/ Recruitment staff who was given my resume to review had called my current employer (my direct manager to be exact) for a reference. I just want to point out that at no point did I tell them it was ok to check my references or contact my current employer.
I have withdrawn my candidacy because of the gross unprofessionalism and lack of respect that this company had for me and my current situation. Candidates be warned when interviewing here, the hiring teams do not understand common courtesy and will call your current employer (or even your BOSS) and tell them that you have put in an application.