Protect Yourself from Job Scams: Recognizing and Avoiding Unsolicited Text Scams

In today’s digital age, job hunting often involves navigating through a myriad of online platforms and social networks unintentionally inviting job scams to get a foot in the door. While these platforms offer vast opportunities, they also attract opportunistic scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting job seekers. By understanding what to look for and how to minimize the risk of getting approached by job scams you can protect yourself and find a real job quicker.

Common Job Scams on the Rise

One increasingly common job scam targeting job seekers involves unsolicited text messages from individuals claiming to represent legitimate companies. These scammers often prey on individuals who have publicly shared their job search efforts on platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and others. They may ask you to engage with them via messaging apps like WhatsApp and request sensitive information such as your banking details, claiming it’s for direct deposit or eligibility purposes.

How Can I Avoid Job Scams?

While there is no guarantee you won’t get approached by job scams, there are ways to minimize the risk and confusion. If you are hoping to get contacted by a company that is hiring and found your online profile, you might be taking the wrong approach. While this can happen, it is unlikely and can be a huge waste of time. The best way to avoid job scams is by working with a recruitment firm like JFC Global that has already pre-screened and qualified companies. In fact, we develop close relationships with both candidates and  companies to ensure that only quality connections are built. If you get a job referral from us, it’s real.  There are some other red flags to watch out for as well that can make it easier to avoid job scams.

Here are some job scam red flags to watch out for:

• Unsolicited Contact: Legitimate companies typically do not initiate contact via text message without prior communication or application submission from the job seeker.
• Requests for Personal Information: Be cautious if you’re asked to provide sensitive information such as bank account details, social security numbers, or passwords over text, especially if it’s before you’ve completed a formal application process or been offered a position.
• Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to respond or provide information hastily. Legitimate employers understand that the hiring process takes time and do not rush candidates into making decisions.
• Poor Grammar and Spelling: Many job scams originate from overseas, and scammers may not have a strong command of the English language. Be wary of messages with grammatical errors or odd phrasing.

How Can I Tell if a Job Text is Real?

At JFC Global, we adhere to all regulations outlined in the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and other SMS guidelines. We will never contact job seekers via unsolicited text messages, and any communication from us will be through official channels established during the application process.

If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from JFC Global or any other company, contact the company directly via the phone number/email that is listed on their public website.  If you find that it is fraudulent communication, we encourage you to report it to the appropriate authorities.

Can I Get Scammed Opening a Text?

Simply opening a text does not put you at risk of getting scammed unless you believe and take action on what is presented. If there is a link in the text and you are unsure of the authenticity of it, avoid clicking it! Simply delete, block, and report the sender. Making sure to do all 3 actions will help to put a stop to whoever is behind the job scam. Never click a link you don’t fully trust whether in text, email or online.

Job Search Safety

Remember, your safety and security are paramount, and by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to job scams. While many job scams are easy to spot, others are getting more deceptive. Finding a job doesn’t have to be scary or dangerous when you utilize professionals in recruitment. If you would like help finding your next job and want to avoid job scams, contact JFC Global today to get started and learn more.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and best of luck in your job search journey!