Economic pressures, a challenging job market, and the availability of free employment resources have led many job seekers to nearly any website that offers the potential for a new career opportunity. Almost inevitably, this has led to a rise in scammers looking to take advantage of those job seekers.
Job scams are fake employment opportunities that are used to lure seekers into giving away sensitive information or even money. An estimated 14 million people are exposed to these scams each year, resulting in more than $2 billion lost annually.
Embarking on the search for a new job or career means it’s important to stay safe and know what to look for when replying to an ad or job notice.
1. Be suspicious of money requests.
Many employment scams request a start-up or training fee to begin onboarding. Legitimate job opportunities do not require employees to pay upfront fees. Franchising or entrepreneurial opportunities usually do require start-up costs, but franchises are a business investment, not a “pay-for-play” career opportunity. Be wary if any recruiter requires you to pay an upfront cost for a job.
2. Do not disclose personally identifiable information through email or text.
Requests for personally identifiable information will never come in the first exchange with a legitimate employer. Acquiring personal information opens a potential employer up to a host of legal liabilities, and they won’t take that kind of action lightly. Never email or text sensitive information — it’s best to assume these methods are not secure. Submit sensitive information through a secure web portal.
3. Question poorly written correspondence.
While it’s not uncommon to run into an occasional typo or error in messages (we’re all human), multiple spelling and grammar mistakes, pushy language, or unusual requests are good indicators that the sender is not, in fact, a prospective employer or career coach, but someone with questionable motives. A legitimate recruiter will be polished and professional. If an email or a caller gets unnaturally aggressive, that behavior should raise eyebrows.
4. Research before responding.
While many scams will have a professional look and feel, do your research before applying. Does the recruiter’s email address match the company name? Is it a real organization? Did you initiate contact or was the reach out unsolicited? Be mindful of where and how contact is being made.
5. Don’t be fooled by notable names.
When contacted about a role with a known company that you did not apply for, call the company’s general number and say, “I am calling because I received a [form of contact] from someone who says they’re on your recruiting/hiring team. They are recruiting for [position]. I am checking to make sure that this is a viable opening and recruiter.” You can also search the company name and “scam” to see if anything pops up.
6. Insist on an interview.
If you are nearing the end of a hiring process and have only communicated via email or SMS, request a phone or virtual interview. Being offered a role without ever having a live interview is a strong sign that something isn’t right — an employer is unlikely to hire someone they’ve never met.
7. Question skills misalignment.
Legitimate recruiters are in search of specific skill sets. If the role you have been presented with does not align with the skills or interests you have expressed, check the legitimacy of the source and ask questions. Keep in mind the increase of AI and smart technology in recruiting can lead to errors in targeting; A skills mismatch is not a direct indication of a scam but should be used to assess leads and prompt additional research.
8. Use common sense.
If an employer asks for anything unusual, the terms of the proposed job are irregular, the salary or work conditions seem too good to be true, or the opportunity requires some form of investment from you, it should raise a red flag. Ask for clarification on anything you find atypical and be cautious if offered the job after only a couple of interactions.
Spot a Scam?
Most job sites do their utmost to protect candidates from fraudulent job postings, but exceptions can always slip through. If you feel you have been targeted by a job scam, take these steps to keep yourself (and our military community) safe from threats:
1. Report suspicious activity. RecruitMilitary’s job board (and most others) have an option to flag a suspicious job posting. If approached outside of a host site, report scammers at:
2. Notify impersonated companies. That way, legitimate organizations know to be on the lookout for copycats and can pursue legal action if needed.
3. Take action. If you think your personal data may have been compromised, freeze your credit, notify your bank, and change your username and password on your financial accounts.
Remember, though scams do happen, you don’t need to be fearful in your job search. Maintain awareness, be smart, do the research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Utilizing a trusted and vetted resource like RecruitMilitary can reduce your risk of becoming the victim of a job scam. Build your profile with confidence and find your next career move today.