Job Scams Are Becoming Common: Here’s How You Can Protect Yourself

Job searching is already a frustrating process. Between the stress of unemployment and the sting of rejections, job hunting for any length of time can make you desperate. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what identity thieves are counting on. As job scams become more common, scammers are employing various tactics to deceive individuals in search of employment.

In one new sophisticated scam, fraudsters troll for job seekers on job boards. They reach out to individuals seeking employment by pretending to represent a major company that has a supposed interest in the job seeker’s credentials or experience. They claim they need a few more pieces of information to conduct a background check before hiring. They’ll ask for personal information, such as a Social Security number . Then, they’ll take you for everything you’ve got.

In another scam, they set up fake job postings on sites like LinkedIn and wait for job seekers to contact them. This practice provides them with a steady stream of desperate and vulnerable applicants. It also saves them the trouble of tracking down email addresses, and makes the contact seem more legitimate.

These schemes work, like most other identity theft scams , by preying on people’s hopes. You need this job offer to be true, so you are willing to rush into the “opportunity” without waiting, thinking, or researching. It only takes one slip to wipe out your savings and ruin your credit , which can also undermine your future job search efforts.

You can’t give up your job search, and you don’t want to refuse a reasonable request from a legitimate employer. So what can you do to keep yourself safe from identity thieves when looking for work? Follow these pieces of advice, which you can remember using the acronym KISS: Know the hiring process, Identify the poster, Sanitize your online presence, Stay vigilant.

Know the hiring process

For most businesses, the hiring process includes a job posting, interview, background check, and a job offer. Background checks cost money to run. No business is going to start running background checks on every potential applicant and most will only do so as a component of a job offer. Before they’ve hired you, that’s all they’d do with a Social Security number. Also, the company would need your signature to run a background check or fill out immigration paperwork. A legitimate business won’t ask for your Social Security number out of the blue.

Identify the poster

If a job offer comes from a major company, odds are good that it’s not just on the job boards . It’s also on their website. Copy the text of the job description and paste it into a search engine. You should get results from several job boards as well as the company’s website. You can use tools to determine the ad’s country of origin. This can help find hidden red flags. If the posting claims to be from a company that’s located in the U.S., its domain registration should reflect that. If it’s a company that’s been in operation for years, its website registration shouldn’t be from the last few weeks or months.

Sanitize your online presence

Social media can help you in the job search process, but these platforms can also help identity thieves. Remove unnecessary personal information like your hometown or your birthday from your social media profiles. This information can help identity thieves bluff their way past security. As an added benefit, putting your date of birth on your resume may be a turnoff for employers. Age discrimination in employment is illegal, and employers can land in hot water if they ask you any questions that hint at trying to determine your age.

Stay vigilant

Look for all the typical scam warning signs: unbelievable salaries, vague descriptions, misspellings, grammar errors, and unprofessional email service providers. Someone offering you a job isn’t that much different from someone offering you a large sum of money. You should be skeptical of everyone you don’t know who contacts you wanting personal information. Take the time to do your due diligence in every instance. Don’t let the pressures of the job search crumble your common sense. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

As you keep the acronym KISS in mind when job hunting, here are a few more ways to defend against job scams:

Research Company Reviews

Before applying for a job or providing any personal information, take some time to research the company online. Look for reviews from current and former employees on reputable websites. This can give you insights into the company’s reputation and culture, such as Scott Credit Union ’s, helping you assess its legitimacy.

Trust Your Gut

If something feels off during the application process or in your communications with a potential employer, trust your instincts. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to rush you into providing sensitive information. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or suspicious, it’s okay to step back and reassess the situation.

Use Secure Communication Channels

When communicating with potential employers, prioritize secure channels. Avoid sharing sensitive information like your Social Security number or bank details over email or text message. Instead, opt for secure platforms or phone calls where you can verify the identity of the person you’re speaking with.

Stay Informed About Common Scams

Keep yourself updated on the latest scams targeting job seekers. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, such as using AI (artificial intelligence) , so staying informed can help you recognize warning signs and protect yourself against new threats.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter a job posting or communication that seems suspicious, don’t hesitate to report it. Most job boards and platforms have mechanisms in place for reporting fraudulent activity. By reporting scams, you can help prevent others from falling victim to the same traps.

In the ever-evolving landscape of job hunting online, staying vigilant against scams is key to safeguarding your personal information and financial security. By following the KISS principle and implementing these safety tips, you can navigate the job search journey with confidence. Your future career success starts with staying informed and staying safe.

At Scott Credit Union, your financial safety is our priority. Check out our security webpage and YouTube security playlist to learn more tips and tricks on how to stay safe from fraud and scams.