If an application asks permission to contact your current employer, you should answer yes even if your employer does not know you are looking for a new job.

Question

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Answering "yes" without your current employer's knowledge could jeopardize your current position if they are not aware that you are seeking new opportunities. It's often better to discuss your job search with your employer first or request that the potential employer does not contact your current employer until a job offer is imminent.

If an Application Asks Permission to Contact Your Current Employer