Fraud Awareness

Staying Safe From Scams During Your Job Search

With the advent of online job boards and remote work, scammers have more ways to pose as employers and reach out directly to job seekers. They know people are often eager to find new opportunities, making even cautious job seekers susceptible to fraud. We’re taking steps to protect our users from these threats — fraud prevention starts with being informed. By asking the right questions, researching employers, and being mindful of unusual or suspicious activity, you can avoid scams and find a genuine job that aligns with your goals. We’re here to help you stay safe every step of the way.

Are There Specific Types of Job Scams I Should Be Aware Of?

Yes, there are a few common types of job scams:

• Generic job descriptions: Real companies typically provide clear information about job responsibilities and qualifications. If the description is too generic or lacks detail, proceed with caution.
• Suspicious email addresses: Scammers often use email addresses that look official but include minor misspellings. A classic example is an email from “@companny.com” instead of “@company.com.”
• Promises of high salaries for minimal work: Offers that promise high salaries for minimal work are most likely fraudulent. Promises of riches with vague descriptions or job responsibilities are usually a tell-tale sign of a scam.

Is It Normal for a Company to Ask for Upfront Payments?

No, real companies do not ask job seekers to cover fees for equipment or training. If a recruiter requests money upfront, especially via platforms like Venmo or PayPal, it’s almost certainly a scam. Real companies provide the necessary hiring resources.

How Can I Verify a Job Offer Is Real?

Here are a few steps you can take to confirm if the job offer is real:

• Trust but verify: Research the company’s website, verify its contact information, and ensure it matches the details in the job listing.
• Read reviews: Sites like Glassdoor, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or job review sites can provide insight into the company’s reputation and alert you to potential fraud.
• Check professional networking sites: See if the recruiter has a LinkedIn profile and if it appears genuine, with activity and connections.

What Should I Do if a Recruiter Contacts Me via Social Media or Email?

Be careful. Professional recruiters contact candidates through official company channels. If a recruiter reaches out through social media, verify their credentials by checking their LinkedIn profile and cross-referencing with the company’s official contact details. Avoid sharing personal information until you are sure the job offer is legitimate.

How to Protect My Information if a Job Offer Seems Suspicious?

You can safeguard your personal information by following these tips:

• Block the scammer: Block emails or phone numbers associated with the scam to prevent further contact and harm.
• Report it: Contact your local law enforcement and notify the job site or platform where you found the listing, and consider reporting the scam to a consumer protection agency.
• Contact your bank: If you’ve shared sensitive information, immediately alert your bank and monitor your account for dubious or suspicious activity.

Which Job Types Are Commonly Linked to Scams?

Some job types or offers that are often associated with scams include:

• “Pay to work” positions: Fraudulent job listings may ask for upfront payment for job placements, training, or access to exclusive roles. Legitimate agencies and employers do not operate this way.
• Phishing emails for “immediate hire” jobs: Offers emphasizing urgency and skipping a formal interview process can be risky. Scammers often pressure you to act without thinking.
• Remote or “work-from-home” positions: While many remote jobs are legitimate, scammers may use remote roles to hide behind fake names and profiles to steal personal information.