Sophisticated scammers target job seekers online

SCAMS continue to present a major challenge for police, with fake online job offers preying on desperate job seekers.

Richards Bay SAPS are urging caution, particularly when companies offer jobs to candidates who haven't applied or been interviewed.

If a job offer seems too good to be true, or they're requesting personal information, proceed with extreme caution.

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, copying job descriptions from real companies, using company logos, and even impersonating recruiters or human resources personnel.

They may go so far as to create fake websites and profiles on LinkedIn that look official to lure in job seekers.

Tragically a lot of job scams can lead to identity theft as personal information - such as an ID number, bank account details, or other sensitive data - are shared.

What are some common signs of a job scam?

• The company asks you to pay money upfront for training, equipment, or an ‘agent fee’ to guarantee the job.

• The advert is poorly written or has numerous spelling and grammatical errors.

• The job offer does not list the name of the company or provides

vague information.

• -The job offer promises unrealistic pay or benefits.

• -The company requests personal information upfront.

• -The company uses pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency.

• -The company identity feels impossible or confusing to verify.

• -The company requests instant payment methods (like Paypal and Payfast). Scammers use these payment processing services to quickly collect money without leaving a paper trail.

What should I do if I think I’ve fallen victim to a job scam?

1. Stop all communication with the scammer immediately.

2. Contact your bank to report any fraudulent charges or suspicious activity.

3. Change your passwords and monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity.

How can I verify the legitimacy of a company offering me a job?

• Research the company online

Most legitimate companies have a website with their products or services, company history, and contact details. Look for a physical address and contact number, and verify they match the details provided in the job offer.

• Check the company’s social media

presence

• Legitimate companies often have active social media accounts with regular updates and engagement with their customers. Check if the company has a verified account on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

• Check the company’s registration

Companies in South Africa are required to register with the CIPC Companies and Intellectual Property Commission - a member of the dtic Group. You can verify a company’s registration by searching the CIPC’s database on their website at cipc.co.za.

• Check with the company

Contact the company directly to ask about the job posting and verify its legitimacy.

• Check with recruitment agencies

If you were contacted by a recruitment agency on behalf of the company, contact the agency to verify their relationship with the company and the legitimacy of the job offer. If you have a name, call and verify that the person actually works there.