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The Dangers of Job Offer Scams: How to Stay Safe

The Information Security Office receives dozens of phish impersonating job offers every single week. As many students prepare to graduate or a productive summer, many are looking for job opportunities. It is important to know what to look for when seeking these opportunities. Fraudulent schemes aim to deceive individuals seeking legitimate employment by offering fake jobs or career opportunities. Scammers often have malicious intentions, such as stealing personal information, extorting money, or exploiting free labor. In this article, we'll explore common job scams, discuss warning signs, and provide valuable tips to safeguard yourself during your job search.

Fake Job Listings:

Scammers post bogus job listings on reputable job sites or create fake profiles on social media platforms. These listings may ask candidates to pay an application fee or start-up costs.
Tip: Be cautious if a job posting requests payment upfront.1

Imposters:

Imposters pose as representatives of legitimate agencies, government institutions, or hiring firms. They often ask for screening fees in the form of gift cards or wire transfers.
Tip: Be skeptical if someone asks for payment before the hiring process.1

Email Offers:

Scammers send emails claiming to be recruiters who found your resume on job boards. They may request sensitive information like identification or bank account numbers.
Tip: Verify the legitimacy of the recruiter and avoid sharing personal details via email.1

Informational Material Scams:

Fraudsters pose as hiring experts offering essential information to optimize your candidacy. In reality, this information is often available on the employer's website or other free sources.
Tip: Avoid paying for information that should be readily accessible.1

Research Employers Thoroughly:

Investigate potential employers, verify their legitimacy, and check for any suspicious behavior in job postings.
Tip: Use reliable sources and avoid clicking links from unknown sources.1

Avoid Upfront Fees:

Legitimate employers won't ask you to pay application fees or equipment costs before hiring.
Tip: If it seems too good to be true, it might be a scam.5

Contact Companies Directly:

Use verified phone numbers or visit the company's official website to confirm job offers.
Tip: Don't rely solely on communication from recruiters; independently verify details.5

Stay Informed:

Familiarize yourself with common job scams and stay updated on new tactics scammers use.
Tip: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides resources to help you recognize job scams.7

Job scams can be financially and emotionally devastating. By staying vigilant, researching employers, and avoiding suspicious requests, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these deceitful schemes. Remember: If it feels off, investigate further before proceeding. Report all phish to the Information Security Office at iso-ir@andrew.cmu.edu. For job information, you can also reach out to the CMU career center for additional information.

Stay safe during your job search! 🌟

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