Fraud Awareness

How to Spot Job Scams and Fake Recruiters

Searching for a new job can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Adding more complexity to the process, job scams are up, and fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their schemes. We are not only here to help you create the perfect cover letter but also to help you protect yourself as you search for the right job. Knowing what to look out for in job scams is the first step in staying safe and secure.

What Are the Telltale Signs of Job Scams?

  • Suspicious email addresses: Fraudsters will often use personal or generic email addresses like Gmail or Yahoo rather than official company email addresses. Check for subtle incorrect spelling in company names, which can be easily overlooked.
  • Fake recruiters: Fraudsters often try to impersonate company representatives using personal emails instead of professional ones.
  • Shady job listings: Vague job ads or posts with no details about the role or responsibilities can be a major red flag.
  • Phishing emails: Companies want to make a good impression on potential job applicants, so they usually send well-written emails. Scammers often employ email addresses or names that are misspelled but closely resemble actual companies. Beware of job offers from unknown domains.
  • Lucrative salaries for low effort: Fraudsters will try to tempt you with offers that sound too good to be true. Be cautious of positions with salaries far above industry standards.
  • Time-sensitive offers: Scammers often push for quick decisions. Legitimate employers will give you time to consider the offer.
  • Upfront payment requests: No legitimate employer will ask for payments for training or equipment through platforms such as PayPal or Zelle.

Is It Ever Legitimate for a Recruiter to Ask for Money?

No, legitimate employers usually don’t ask for sensitive information, like bank account numbers, social security numbers or personal identification, until a job offer has been extended. If you’re asked for this information too early in the process, proceed with caution and verify the request.

How Do Fraudsters Use Urgency to Their Advantage?

Fraudsters often try to create a false sense of urgency by telling you that the job offer is “time-sensitive” or needs immediate attention on your part. They aim to rush you, so you don’t have time to do your due diligence and research the offer. Legitimate employers give candidates time to consider and don’t push for immediate acceptance.

What Can I Do to Verify a Company or Job Listing Is Real?

There are a few ways to check if a company or job is real:

  • Search LinkedIn: Check if the recruiter has a profile or see if other employees list the company on their profiles.
  • Research the company: Look up the company’s website and verify contact details. Legitimate companies typically have a clear online presence.
  • Search for scams: Conduct a quick search using the company name and words like “scam” or “fraud.” Job review sites and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are good resources for checking a company’s reputation.

What Should I Do if I Suspect a Job Offer Is a Scam?

Here’s what you can do:

  1. Report it: Notify the job platform or site where you found the listing. Reporting suspicious activity helps prevent others from falling victim.
  2. Contact authorities: Report the scam to consumer protection agencies or your local authorities.
  3. Protect your financial information: If you’ve shared personal information, contact your bank or financial institution to secure your accounts and monitor for any suspicious activity.

Can I Contact the Company Directly to Verify a Job Offer?

Yes, absolutely. If you’re uncertain about a job offer, contact the company directly using verified contact information from the official website, not the job listing or email. Many companies appreciate candidates who reach out to confirm legitimate job postings, especially when it helps them to identify potential scams.