Getting that dream job is what we strive for; and we get ecstatic when it comes knocking at our doorstep. Little do we realise that most of these dream jobs, could turn into nightmares, if we are not cautious.
Let’s talk about Job Search Scams & Ways to Protect Yourself.
1. Job Requirements & Job Description
Scammers make their emails sound believable by listing job requirements. Ideally, these requirements are so outrageously simple that almost everyone qualifies for the job:
According to the BBB Scam Tracker report, victims reported that the scammer introduced themselves typically through a job portal or a professional site. Here “the employer” would often provide you with employment directly, ‘or’ attempt to lure you by saying that you’ve already made the primary cut and that they want to interview you as a finalist for the job.
2. Unprofessional Emails
Some scam emails are well-written, but many aren’t. Real companies hire professionals who can write well. If the e-mail contains spelling, capitalization, punctuation, or grammatical mistakes, be on guard.
3. Data Entry Scams
Data entry scams are available in many forms, but the common theme is that they promise tons of cash for employment that doesn’t require much skill. Jobs falling in this category often require an upfront payment for processing or training, and really rarely pay as advertised. Yes, there are legitimate data entry jobs in the market, but they don’t advertise extravagant wages, and neither do they require an initial outlay of funds.
4. Stuffing Envelopes
Stuffing envelopes is a job scam that has been around for several years. Although variations exist, this scam typically involves signing up and paying a fee to “stuff envelopes from home.” Once enrolled, you receive a document that says “Thank You”, but now you have to get others to shop for an equivalent envelope-stuffing opportunity the way you did. You earn a little commission when somebody else falls for the scam and pays the non-refundable fee.
5. Advance fees scams
If you received an email congratulating you for being shortlisted for an interview, or for being selected for job as a trainee, or for an attempt period, and therefore the email asks you to credit a specific amount on a given account number for background checks, or certain administrative charges, or just in case to get a job abroad; you are asked to pay certain amount as fees for visa purposes and the agent. Then you have to wait!
Always verify the email address of the sender. Genuine offers will never be as straightforward as congratulating you for being selected for the position. It would include details of various departments, ‘or’ the Head of Department, and it will always talk about an additional round of interview. Similarly, companies will rarely describe its pay package on email, or confirm a fresher for employment at an exorbitant salary.
Conclusion: Recruitment fraud can really come as a hope crushing moment in desperate times, when college placements don’t help. However, you need remember fact that no recruiter will ever ask you for a payment to get a job.
