Fraudulent employers have been reaching out to students via email promoting virtual opportunities that seem too good to be true. Be aware of red flags, and learn tips to protect yourself – review our guide on how to Avoid Fraudulent Job Postings.
Since job seekers have gotten better at spotting fraudulent postings, impostors are coming up with new tactics to hook you. They want you to apply to their fake jobs so they can steal your personal information and defraud you. Here are some of their latest tactics:
- Private messages from impostors through LinkedIn
- Direct emails from “hiring managers” stating that they received your email address from connectSC/Symplicity
- Creation of elaborate webpages and email handles linking them to the “fake” organization URL
Students who respond to these messages are “interviewed” via chat and then offered the job right away. The impostor then asks for the student to provide personal contact information, such as a driver’s license and social security number. In some instances, students are asked to deposit a fake check that is mailed to them and then wire a portion of the check back to the employer to make sure that they are able to follow instructions.
If you receive a message about a job through LinkedIn, go to the contact’s profile to review the information listed. Make sure that they have multiple connections and other key details, such as work history and education. You can browse through their connections to see if you have people in common. If a job is sent via email, you should also search for the contact online. Typically, their LinkedIn profile is one of the first search results. Most of the time, information tying them to the organization will also show up. In addition, it is best practice to conduct a thorough review of the organization’s website. Make sure that all links work and the job they are offering is on their careers page.
Unsure if the organization and job you are exploring is legitimate? Consult with us! Email the USC Career Center Employer Engagement Team, or complete our form to report a fraudulent posting. We are here to help you remain vigilant when it comes to accepting offers without a true interview process.
From CNBC – Job scams have increased as Covid-19 put millions of Americans out of work. Here’s how to avoid one.
