You’ve been scrolling job boards for hours, and your dream job seems just one click away. However, you need to take extra steps to ensure it’s not too good to be true. Scammers are targeting job seekers more than ever, luring with job post scams, and convincing “offers” that lead to identity theft or the ghost job posting. Be on the lookout for these eight ways scammers target job seekers so that you don’t get burned.
1. The Fake Company Website
Scammers go all out by creating professional-looking company websites that seem legit. They’ll mimic real businesses or invent new ones, all to trick you into applying. So, that means some precautions are undeniably necessary. Take steps to protect yourself. You should always verify a company’s website through official channels, like LinkedIn or the Better Business Bureau. If the company doesn’t exist online elsewhere, that’s a huge red flag. Do your research before going in!
2. The “Too Good to Be True” Salary
Any job offering high pay for minimal experience or effort is probably a scam. Scammers target job seekers by dangling irresistible compensation to grab attention, hoping candidates will ignore that nagging feeling that something isn’t right. No legitimate employer hands out massive salaries without the necessary experience or qualifications. As the saying goes, if it feels too good to be true, it probably is, so trust your gut and walk away if the compensation doesn’t make sense. If you’re not sure if it’s off, compare salary offers with industry standards. That way, you can avoid falling for these tempting but fake opportunities.
3. The Application Fee Trap
While a job search always involves jumping through a few hoops, it shouldn’t cost you anything more than time and energy. Any job that asks you to pay upfront is a major red flag, period. Scammers use this technique to collect fees under the guise of “processing” or “training” costs. They’re really just running off with the money (and usually your card number or bank account details too). Legitimate employers will never ask candidates for money to apply or onboard. The moment you’re asked for payment, run the other way. Remember, if you’re paying to get hired, you’re getting scammed.
4. The Interview Over Text
Professional companies schedule formal interviews, often through video or in person. Scammers, on the other hand, might ask you to complete an interview over text messaging apps or casual email exchanges. Along with being highly unprofessional, a text-based interview is always suspicious. That’s especially true if it relies on an app with an auto-delete setting, giving scammers a way to collect information about you and leaving you with no proof the exchange occurred. That’s why it’s best to stick to established, secure platforms for your job interviews. If someone asks to interview you via text, it’s likely you’re dealing with a scammer.
5. The Ghost Job Posting
Ghosting job posting is a tactic where scammers create fake listings for jobs that don’t exist. Once you apply, they might ghost you entirely or lead you down a path of empty promises. These job postings never lead to real opportunities; they are just wasted time and effort. Plus, while applying, you might hand over sensitive information, like your name, address, and more, giving scammers a starting point for stealing your identity. Ultimately, it’s best to stay vigilant, ensuring you only submit your information to companies you can genuinely trust.
6. The Identity Theft Ploy
During a job search, handing over some personal information is unavoidable. After all, you can complete an application without giving your name, phone number, and email address, at a minimum. The trick is scammers use this to their advantage. After getting the basics, they’ll ask for even more personal information early in the process, well before you’ve even landed the job. Handing over sensitive info like your Social Security number, banking details, or other personal identifiers puts you at risk of identity theft. Sure, legitimate employers request these details, but only after hiring. Always protect your identity, and don’t provide this information unless you’re sure the job is genuine.
7. The Quick Hire Scheme
Scammers often “hire” you on the spot without asking detailed questions about your skills or qualifications. While it might feel flattering to be chosen so quickly, legitimate employers will vet candidates carefully. Quick hires without interviews, background checks, or real engagement are red flags. In many cases, this type of fast track to employment may actually be a fast track to fraud. The “company” might ask you to cash a check and return some of the money, and then the check bounces after that transaction completes, leaving you on the hook. Ultimately, that’s just one way this scam might unfold, so wariness about quick hiring is essential.
8. The Work-from-Home Equipment Scam
This scam involves scammers offering remote jobs but requiring you to purchase equipment—usually through their own suppliers. You’ll hand over your card or bank details to the supplier. Then, after you buy the equipment, which never arrives, you’ll never hear from them again. In the end, no legit employer will ask you to front costs for equipment. If they’re asking for purchases or reimbursements before starting the job, consider it a scam.
Steer Clear and Stay Savvy
Job scams are frustrating and potentially damaging, but you can outsmart them by staying alert and cautious. Trust your instincts, research every opportunity, and never rush into offers that feel suspicious. Your next career move should lead to success, not a scam. Keep your guard up, and protect yourself from fraud. The perfect job is out there, you just need to sidestep the traps along the way.