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How to Spot Employment Scams
Have you ever been approached about a job that seemed too good to be true? That’s a sure sign you may be the target of an employment scam. Job scams rose 118% in 2023, thanks to artificial intelligence that appears so authentic they’ve even managed to infiltrate legitimate hiring sites like Indeed or CareerBuilder. Remote workplace environments have also made workers more comfortable with digital hiring practices, making them more vulnerable to cybercriminals.
It pays to be paying attention
In 2022, consumers lost $367 million to job and opportunity scams. Fraud remains an ongoing concern, with average victims losing as much as $2,000 to swindlers. When it comes to employment scams, here are two warning signs to be wary of:
An unsolicited job offer. It’s not uncommon for scammers to send you a job offer, often out of the blue, for a position you never applied for.
An offer that’s too good to be true. Suppose a job opportunity is presented to you that promises high pay for minimal work, no experience needed, exceptional flexibility, or similar perks. In that case, it’s most likely too good to be true.
Protect your money and your identity
Like other fraudsters, job scammers are typically out to steal your money, identity, or both. Here’s how a common employment scam may play out:
- You apply for a job you assume is legitimate. However, the job is fake and has been posted by a scammer
- You receive an email from the fake employer indicating they want to hire you. The hiring company may mirror one that exists or be entirely made up
- You’re sent a fictitious check for more than the amount needed to purchase equipment or supplies for the job, and you’re asked to send what’s left back in the form of gift cards, cash apps, or Bitcoin
- When you try to cash the company’s check, it bounces, leaving you to cover the equipment costs and excess balance
Remember, a legitimate company wouldn’t ask you to cover expenses such as equipment or travel. Job scammers may also try to steal your identity by obtaining your personal information from a job application and using it to commit fraud. Before accepting a job offer, be wary if you’re asked for personally identifiable information, such as your social security number or banking information.
Recognize the red flags
Unfortunately, job scams are nothing new but are becoming harder to detect. Here are five additional red flags that suggest you may be dealing with an employment scam:
1. A vague job description. If you can’t determine what the job entails or what qualifications are needed, walk away. Work-from-home job offers often fit this profile.
2. Unprofessional communication. If you receive job-related emails or offers through Yahoo, Gmail, or messaging apps such as WhatsApp, that’s another sign you’re dealing with a scammer. Check for spelling or grammar errors—something you won’t see in a valid message.
3. You’re not asked for a resume. If you’re not asked for your resume or credentials, that’s a tip-off that something isn’t right.
4. There’s no direct contact with the recruiter or employer. Remote workers are used to dealing in the digital world. Still, if the hiring process doesn’t include direct encounters with individuals via Zoom or in person, that should arouse suspicion.
5. You feel pressured. Consider it a red flag if the employer seems aggressive or overly eager for you to take the job.
Extra measures that can keep you safe
Reduce your chances of becoming a scam victim by completing these additional safety checks throughout the hiring process.
Do your research. To validate a company and a job opening, go directly to the company’s website. Searching for them on social media can also help you verify their existence.
Cross-check information. Verify that the posting’s email and phone numbers match those on the company’s website. You’ll also want to confirm that the domain names are the same. Scammers frequently make subtle changes, such as adding an extra letter in the URL, that may go unnoticed.
Interview the company. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the interview process. The more you know, the more confidently you can pursue an opportunity. A solid recruiter or hiring manager shouldn’t hesitate to provide you with answers.
Stick to reputable job boards. While they’re not fail-safe, jobs posted on reliable sites like Indeed, Monster, or LinkedIn are the most likely to be authentic.
Finally, trust your instincts. If something about a job posting or a company’s employment process seems suspicious, proceed cautiously.
