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Sign Up NowThese days, it’s not unusual to come across a job listing that feels suspicious.
Whether it’s asking you for private details too early in the process or requesting money, you may feel pressured to go along with it just to chase what seems like a rare chance.
Often, if an opportunity looks unreal, it usually is. If you’ve ever been caught up in a job scam, you should know you’re not the only one. Millions of people across the world have been tricked by fake job offers.
Being aware of the warning signs and knowing how to tell the difference between a genuine posting and a false one can save both your time and money.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
Job scams are a major problem affecting today’s job market. The Better Business Bureau reported that in 2020, 14 million Americans dealt with scams, and on average, those who were targeted lost about $1,000.
Scammers usually take advantage of people’s eagerness to work. For instance, if you are asked to pay money before or after signing an agreement, chances are it’s a scam.
Common tricks include fake checks and unpaid jobs, where companies exploit workers by refusing to pay them for the work they’ve already done.
Although scams come in different forms, most can be grouped into three main types:
This happens when someone posing as a hiring manager asks for sensitive details such as bank accounts, driver’s license numbers, or Social Security Numbers. According to the BBB, 34% of applicants were ready to share license details.
Here, scammers promise payment for shipping packages to new addresses. Victims never get paid, while criminals use stolen credit cards to purchase items like electronics and then move them through unsuspecting people.
Some scammers send out fake checks as “payment” for work. These are often linked to fake jobs like mystery shopping, babysitting, or small gigs such as photography. The checks can’t be cashed and leave victims unpaid.
Being able to recognize these tricks is important in deciding if an offer is real or not.
The best way to protect yourself when something feels off is to notice the warning signals and choose to walk away.
If you’ve worked in your field for a while, you already know the usual pay range. So, when a posting shows a salary far above what’s normal, you should be cautious.
It doesn’t make sense for a company to pay much more than market rate for the same role. This is one of the easiest signs to spot, but also one of the hardest to ignore because of the tempting numbers. Remember: if it looks unreal, it probably is.
If you’re ever asked for your bank information upfront, even for things like setting up direct deposit, that’s a red flag. Legitimate employers don’t ask for those details until you’re officially hired and going through onboarding.
Sometimes, a recruiter suddenly calls saying they saw your resume online and want to hire you. At first, this may feel lucky.
But think about it—most roles attract many applicants, so it’s unusual to get an offer without applying. Unless you already worked with the company or are well-known in your area, this is a red flag. Normally, you’d be the one reaching out to recruiters, not the other way around.
It’s common to search the internet for information about employers. Checking websites, reviews, and online profiles helps you prepare and understand a company better.
If you can’t find any trace of the business—no site, no email domain, no address—there’s a good chance it isn’t real.
The same applies to recruiters or managers. Some scammers pretend to represent large companies and post fake listings. If you can’t find their LinkedIn profile or any link on a company site, that’s another strong warning sign.
If you get a message saying you already have the job before going through an interview that should make you cautious. Most companies take time to screen and choose the right candidate.
It’s very unusual for a business to hire someone without any real process. An offer out of nowhere should make you question the situation.
One clear warning sign is when a job ad has obvious spelling or grammar mistakes. Real companies posting on job boards usually make sure their postings are clean and professional. This goes beyond small mistakes like mixing up “then” and “than.” It’s more about errors that make the ad look sloppy or unprofessional.
The same thing applies to emails from a recruiter. If their messages are full of errors, sound awkward, or use overly formal language, you may not be dealing with someone genuine.
Another concern is when the job description is unclear or doesn’t add up. A vague description should make you think twice.
More companies are using video calls on Zoom or Microsoft Teams for interviews. These are standard tools now. But some apps are not typically used for hiring.
For instance, if a recruiter contacts you on social media apps like Facebook Messenger, that’s likely a bad sign. Reputable employers usually won’t rely on platforms like that for interviews.
Don’t get swept up in the excitement of a new job if you’ve already spotted signs that feel off. It’s better to stay cautious and keep looking for details that don’t seem right.
Always remind yourself that you can step away from any opportunity. Even if you’re halfway through the process, you don’t owe the company anything if red flags show up.
One common scam involves sending a new hire a check for a large amount and then asking them to keep part of it and send the rest to someone else. The check later bounces, and the money you sent is gone.
If you’re asked to handle money like this, don’t agree. You should never use your personal accounts to move money for an employer.
If you still want to give the job a chance, going to the interview can help you learn more. It’s your chance to ask questions, see how the company operates, and get a better idea of the pay and duties.
Talking to someone in HR can give you insight into what the role is really about. Even online video calls can reveal things, especially if you come prepared with questions.
Finally, avoid opening links in shady emails. These can carry malware that harms your computer and puts your personal data at risk.
Many people feel stressed when forced to make quick choices. That pressure can cause mistakes.
It’s always smarter to take time before you agree to anything. If someone tells you that you must accept right away or risk losing the offer, you can ask for more time or simply decline.
Scammers often use urgency to push people into bad decisions. They count on you being too rushed to notice the warning signs.
Close your bank account: If your bank details have been taken, close your account right away and contact your bank. They may be able to reverse recent charges.
Report the scam: Report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Better Business Bureau, and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. If it came through a job board, report it there as well.
Protect your identity: If you’re worried about identity theft, get in touch with professionals who can help secure your information.
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With so many job postings online, it’s not always simple to separate real companies from scams. Keep an eye out for warning signs, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right.
You don’t have to manage the job search on your own. Working with a career counselor can boost your chances of finding the right role. They can guide you, help you understand your value, and give you the confidence to stand up for yourself.
Would you like me to continue rewriting the first part of your article too (the one I started earlier with “These days, it’s not unusual to come across a job listing…”), so the whole thing flows consistently in the same rewritten style?
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