Job Scams: Don't Let Your Dream Job Turn into a Nightmare

Across the world, 2023 is a tough time for jobseekers. Employment scams prey on people’s need to get a job and support themselves and their families. Scammers reach out to jobseekers, often through unsolicited phone calls or emails, posing as employers or recruiters. They manipulate victims, promising high-paying jobs, remote work opportunities, or exclusive job offers.

'Job Opportunity' related phone scams typically follow a series of steps designed to deceive victims:

Scammers initiate contact, often using cold-calling techniques or sending emails claiming to have job openings. They may pose as well-known companies or use generic job titles to appear credible. Scammers entice victims by offering high salaries, flexible working hours, or other benefits. They exploit people's need for employment and may use persuasive language to create a sense of urgency.

To proceed with the job application, scammers request personal information such as Social Security numbers (in the US), bank account details, or copies of ID documents. This information can be used for identity theft or sold on the black market. In some cases, scammers may demand upfront payments for job applications, background checks, or training materials. Recently, this has become very common in India, where people are asked to do tasks that require upfront payment. Legitimate employers typically cover these expenses, and requesting upfront payment is a red flag. 

In South Africa, there are reports of SMS scams, where people looking for jobs are sent a message to a specific phone number to accept the offer of an interview or learn more about the job. The jobseeker is then charged at a high rate for replying to the message. 

Protecting yourself from the "Job Opportunity" phone scam requires vigilance and caution. Consider the following tips:

1. Before engaging with any job opportunity, research the company thoroughly. Verify their existence, reputation, and contact details through their official website, online reviews, and reputable job search platforms.
2. Be skeptical of job offers that come out of the blue. Legitimate employers typically require an application process and interviews before sending an offer.
3. Avoid sharing sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank account details, or copies of ID documents during initial job discussions. Legitimate employers will request this information at a later stage in a secure manner.
4. Be cautious if asked to make upfront payments for job applications, background checks, or training materials. Legitimate employers will not require payment from candidates during the application process.
5. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. If a job opportunity seems suspicious, verify the company's legitimacy, and be cautious before proceeding. In Nigeria, https://nelex.gov.ng/ promises to be a website with verified jobs, however has only recently launched.

How can Truecaller help? Well, there’s our famous Caller ID and Spam Blocking. But there’s also much more. Visit the website and take a look at all our features, and also make sure to check this blog regularly for all the new updates and tips.