How to Respond to Scam Job Posts
Simply Hired Staff
In a previous article on scam jobs, we discussed several cues that indicate an online job posting may be fraudulent. Today we’ll look at some actions you can take when you encounter a suspicious-looking job.
When in doubt, search the web
Perform an internet search for any specifics in the job posting including:
- company name
- phone number
- job title
- address
- website URL
Combining one or more of these search terms with the word “scam” or “review” can help you discover additional information about the company and whether people have been scammed before.
Go with your gut
When you don’t feel comfortable applying to a job, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The best way to prove a job is legitimate is by going to the place of business in person and asking if they are hiring. If you can’t find the location of the business, it likely isn’t real.
Never pay money to apply or be certified for a job
Many jobs require an initial investment, such as in prior education and training, but no job should require you to pay the hiring company to apply or become qualified for the job. If a specific certification is required for the job, secure it through an agency not affiliated with the hiring company. One popular scam is the check-cashing scam. If someone sends you a check and asks for a portion of the money back, the check is almost certainly fake and the job is a scam.
What do I do if I think I’ve been scammed?
- As soon as you discover a scam, fraud or phishing attempt, report it to the following authorities:
- Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Federal Trade Commission
- The site where you found the job posting
- The email provider (if you received a scam email)
- If you’ve already given your money or personal information to a scammer, these resources can help:
- FTC Identity Theft Center
- Your Bank
- Local police
Most of these rules for finding scams have exceptions, so use your instincts and avoid the jobs you feel especially suspicious about.
Above all, Simply Hired wants to provide a good job seeker experience. Help us do that by reporting suspected fraud. Please include the link to the job listing or a copy of the email including the detailed email header and we will investigate right away.
