Identifying Job Posting Scams
At U.P. Michigan Works!, we know modern job seeking can be a struggle. The tradition of walking into a business and handing a resume is often met with “Please apply online.” Searching for jobs through online websites has become the norm and it’s not uncommon to see fraudulent job postings out there. What’s the reason behind a fake job posting?
Like with most things that are fraudulent, scammers are trying to gain financially, Whether that’s trying to recruit you in a multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme, obtain personal information to commit identity theft, or something else – the list can go on! We are here to offer tips to help you navigate this and avoid you falling for these scams!
Do not pay to apply for a job!
This is often a sign of a scam or MLM scheme, and although some people have made money from these schemes, they often just leave you in debt. Scammers could also just be after a quick buck and there never was any job in the first place.
If they offer you a job with little to no interview, it's typically a phishing scam.
Phishing is when someone is after your personal information to use to get access to your bank account or use your credit cards. You may even notice further down the line that they might ask you to ‘invest’ in the company.
To avoid this, always make sure background checks are done through a verified provider. It’s always a good idea to utilize the internet for research or use trusted review websites such as Trustpilot. People will often leave bad reviews or warn others about certain companies.
Be wary if descriptions or requirements are vague or smell for "get rich quick" schemes.
These jobs often sound too good to be true. For example, the post might say it is a remote position with no experience or credential needed, unlimited PTO, and starting salary is $100,000 – $200,000 a year. They present these dream sounding jobs to make it more likely you will fall into their trap!
Double check the email you are receiving communication from!
Usually, HR or hiring professionals will reach out with an email that is attached to the company like @upmichiganworks.org or @michigan.gov
If the email sounds like a personal email (for example USPS@hotmail.com), you should be suspicious and do your research.
Identifying Text Message Job Scams
Have you ever received a text message offering you a job? What about a text message from a recruiter? We use our cell phones to communicate daily, but these are red flags when it comes to modern job seeking! Here are some red flags to watch for when receiving recruiter job text messages.
You received an unsolicited text messaged after applying for a job online (like through Indeed or LinkedIn).
These scammers will find ways to get your information off job seeking websites and chase after you. Be careful where you share your information!
The company name or phone number seems fishy.
Always do your due diligence to research the company they claim they are from, especially if the posting is for something vague like “Elite Staffing.”
They could also be pretending they are from a real company to steal your information. Try searching for the company on a web browser and contact them on your own with the information on their website.
They use emojis in the text message.
This is something that a professional recruiter would never use and screams “scam”.
These sorts of text messages can happen from any phone number. Scammers are getting more creative and using programs to trick people into thinking they are a local number, so don’t trust it just because it starts with 906!
If you are unsure if a text message could be a scam or not, don’t reply! Check with a trusted family member or friend, or come into U.P. Michigan Works! We are here to assist you with your employment journey at any step of the way.