Protecting Yourself from Job Scams

Publish Date

September 5, 2024

Job scams continue to become more prevalent, with scammers disguising themselves as recruiters or hiring managers. Across various industries and companies, there has been an increase in scammers targeting job seekers to steal their personal information and obtain money from them.

As you search for new opportunities, especially with The Select Group, we want to help you confidently identify legitimate outreach from an official employee versus a potential scammer. Below, we have outlined key tips, warning signs of job scams and fraud, and best practices to keep you and your information safe.

What Are Some Common Red Flags?

Job scams can be tricky to spot, but there are often telltale signs that something isn’t right. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

  • Asking for Money or Personal Information: Legitimate companies will never ask you to pay for job placement, training, or other services as part of the hiring process. If a recruiter asks for your Social Security number (SSN), bank details, or any form of payment, it’s a clear indication of a scam.
  • Reaching Out on Unofficial Channels: Be cautious if a recruiter contacts you through unofficial channels, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or unsolicited text messages. Professional communication typically occurs through official company emails or well-known job platforms. If you’re contacted through a more personal channel, verify the legitimacy of the recruiter and the job offer before proceeding.
  • Other Red Flags:
    • Unprofessional Communication: Poor grammar, misspellings, or vague job descriptions can signal a scam.
    • Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to make quick decisions without giving you time to think.
    • Too Good to Be True Offers: If a job offer promises an unusually high salary for minimal work or seems too good to be true, it probably is.

What Can You Do to Avoid Falling Victim?

To protect yourself from job scams, follow these best practices:

  • Research the Company: Before responding to any job offer, research the company. Check the official website, look for legitimate job postings, and verify the recruiter’s credentials on professional networking sites like LinkedIn.
  • Use Official Channels: Always communicate with recruiters through official channels. If you’re contacted via an unofficial channel, ask for an official email address and confirm the legitimacy of the offer.
  • Be Skeptical of Requests for Money: If asked for money or personal information, cease communication immediately and report the incident. Legitimate employers will never ask for payment during the hiring process.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts. Take the time to verify details before making any decisions.

How Should You Report Suspected Job Scams?

If you encounter a job scam, it’s important to report it to the appropriate authorities. Reporting helps protect others from falling victim to similar schemes.

  • Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): You can report job scams directly to the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. The FTC monitors fraud activities and acts against scammers, helping prevent further job seeker harm.

At TSG, we are committed to safeguarding our consultants and potential candidates from fraudulent activities. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from job scams and ensure a safe job-seeking experience.

– Matt McLean, Sr. Information Technology Manager at The Select Group

 

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