It is an unfortunate reality that many of us have fallen victim to some form of online scam or another. Whether it’s clicking a shady link, downloading a suspicious file, or falling prey to a cyber-attack, there is always a risk of data theft or identity fraud. Another common phenomenon that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the fake job posting scam.
Fake job postings appearing on sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job-search platforms are becoming more of a problem. Unfortunately, the promise of a “too good to be true” job offer can be alluring; especially to unemployed job seekers. The problem is, by the time one has realised that the job listing is not legitimate, it is already too late. However, with a bit of knowledge and understanding, it is possible to protect yourself from such scams.
First of all, be wary of job postings containing a salary that is significantly higher than the industry standard. Scammers will typically use unrealistic salaries and job benefits as bait. Additionally, a warning sign that something isn’t right is if the employer is pressuring you to provide personal information (including bank details, social security number, etc). Most genuine employers will wait until the appropriate stage in the recruitment process – typically after you have had a face-to-face interview – before asking you to provide such information.
Another major red flag to look out for is if the employer asking you to pay money as part of the “application process”. This also includes requests to transfer funds into a specific bank account. While there are legitimate reasons for an employer to ask you to pay for something such as background checks, it should always be done through an established and secure payment platform.
Finally, always take the time to do your own due diligence. This means double-checking the credentials of the employer, researching the company, and verifying the job posting on other sites. If something seems off, then it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid applying.
Staying safe online requires constant vigilance. Fake job postings are a common tactic employed by cyber criminals to target those looking for work. Unfortunately, it can be all too easy to fall for these offers if you are not aware of the warning signs. By following the tips in this article, you should be able to better protect yourself from becoming a victim of this type of scam.
