Employment Scams: What You Need to Know

In today’s digital job market, platforms like Indeed and CareerBuilder simplify job hunting but also introduce risks, particularly from employment scams. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.

What Are Employment Scams?

Employment scams involve fraudsters pretending to be legitimate employers to steal personal information or money. These scams often start with fake job postings or unsolicited offers designed to trick you into providing sensitive information or paying for fake services.

Common Scam Tactics

  • Fake Job Listings: Scammers create convincing job ads that promise high salaries, working from home, or benefits but are designed to deceive.
  • Unsolicited Offers: Job offers you didn’t apply for. Legitimate employers typically follow a standard hiring process.
    Request for Personal Information: Scammers may ask for sensitive details like Social Security numbers or bank information early in the process.
  • Upfront Payment: Some scams such as envelope stuffing or mystery shopping may be listed on job sites and/or neighborhood forums as a lucrative side hustle. They typically will ask for upfront payments for training, processing, and/or materials that aren’t needed.
  • Work-from-home Jobs: Scammers are aware of the rising popularity of remote work and target candidates with work-from-home positions. Often, the scam involves persuading a job seeker to pay a fee or purchase items for the position.

Why You Should Avoid Publicly Posting Your Resume

Publicly posting your resume can expose your personal information to anyone, including scammers. To protect yourself, consider keeping your resume private and sharing it only with verified employers.

Tips for Staying Safe

  • Research the Company: Verify the legitimacy of any company before applying. Check their website, reviews, and contact details.
  • Be Cautious of Unsolicited Offers: Approach job offers you didn’t apply for with skepticism. Real employers rarely make offers without an interview.
  • Don’t Share Sensitive Information: Avoid giving out personal details like Social Security numbers early on. Legitimate employers will ask for this information only later in the hiring process.
  • Use Privacy Settings: Adjust your resume’s privacy settings on job search sites to limit visibility to verified employers only.

If You Suspect a Scam

  • Stop Communication: Cease contact with anyone you suspect is a scammer.
  • Report the Scam: Notify the job site and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Also notify BMI Federal Credit Union if you think your account has been compromised.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your financial accounts and credit reports for any unusual activity.

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(August 2024)