Does my resume disappear into a "black hole" once I apply online?

It feels that way, but your application is usually stored in the employer's system, not deleted. Silence normally means the recruiter has too many applications, the role is on hold, or another candidate moved ahead, not that a robot destroyed your file.

What you can do:

• Save the job advert and a copy of what you sent.
• Check your portal account for status updates.
• After a week or two, a short polite follow-up to a named recruiter can be appropriate where contact details are given.
• Keep applying elsewhere while you wait.

Some employers also search their stored applications for future roles, which is one more reason to keep your resume clear and searchable.

If you apply to many roles and hear nothing from any of them, look at the pattern rather than blaming software. Are the jobs a good match for your level? Did you answer screening questions accurately? Does the top of your resume make your fit obvious? Small fixes there usually help more than worrying about the system.