Job Scams: How to Avoid Employment Fraud

Scammers are targeting millions of Americans searching for jobs, looking for opportunities to obtain access to victims’ identities and financial assets. 

In 2023, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported that the total losses due to cybercrime in the US reached a record $12.5 billion, a 22% increase from the previous year.

With scams on the rise, it's more important than ever to stay alert and informed during the job search, as scammers continue to develop more sophisticated ways to exploit job seekers.

Who’s Being Targeted?

While anyone can fall victim to job scams, younger adults are especially vulnerable. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) reports that:

• Ages 25–34 account for 28% of employment scam reports
• Ages 35–44 make up nearly 21%
• Ages 45–54 follow at about 18%
• Seniors 65+ report fewer cases, but lose the most — with median losses over $2,200

How the Scams Work

Fraudsters use familiar job sites, social media platforms and even newspaper ads to promote fake opportunities. These scams can take many forms:

• Impersonating Real Companies: Criminals pose as reputable employers like Amazon or Walmart, often using fake websites or emails to collect Social Security numbers, bank information or other sensitive data.
• Mystery Shopper Scams: Victims are tricked into depositing fake checks, buying gift cards and sending back photos of the cards or transferring funds — ultimately being held responsible when the checks bounce.
• Reshipping Scams: Fraudsters recruit “remote workers” to receive and repackage goods (often stolen) and ship them elsewhere. Victims not only go unpaid but may also have unknowingly provided enough information to have their identities stolen.
• Job Placement Fees: Legitimate staffing firms do not charge job seekers. If you're asked to pay for help landing a job, it’s likely a scam.

Red Flags to Watch For

Here are common warning signs that a job offer isn’t legitimate:

• You’re offered a job you didn’t apply for
• The position isn’t listed on the company’s official website
• Interviews are done via messaging apps like Telegram or WhatsApp
• There’s no real interview at all
• Emails come from generic domains like Gmail or Yahoo
• You’re asked to pay to secure the job
• You're asked to transfer money through your personal bank account
• You’re pressured to share personal details like your Social Security number or bank info before being hired

How to Protect Yourself

• Do your research — Look up the company and verify any job posting through official channels.
• Never pay for a job — Legitimate employers won’t charge you.
• Protect your information — Don't share personal data until you’ve confirmed the employer is legitimate.
• Avoid roles that involve transferring money — These are almost always scams.
• Never share your credit card info — It’s not necessary for legitimate job applications.

What to Do If You’re a Victim:

If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a job scam:

1. Report it immediately
   1. FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: www.ic3.gov
   2. FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
   3. Your state attorney general
2. If you shared sensitive data, visit IdentityTheft.gov to take protective measures and monitor your credit.
3. Update passwords for any compromised accounts.
4. Alert money transfer services if payments were made.
5. Contact your bank if you sent money through your account.
6. Notify the platform where the job ad was posted so they can remove it and prevent further harm.

Always take the time to research job opportunities thoroughly, protect your personal information and trust your instincts. 

By knowing the red flags and taking proactive steps, job seekers can better safeguard themselves against fraud and focus on finding legitimate, rewarding employment opportunities.

This information was derived by the American Bankers’ Association Website. For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3SedA3e