Latest news with #jobscams
CNET
21 hours ago
- Business
- CNET
Some Jobs Are Too Good to Be True, Especially in a Tough Labor Market
ArtMarie/Getty Images The job market feels tougher than ever right now, despite relatively low unemployment rates. So imagine being one of the 1.6 million Americans hunting for a job for at least six months, then, at long last, you get an unprompted message from a recruiter. You're offered a work-from-home position, making thousands of dollars a day. All you have to do is fill out a form with your personal information or in some cases, pay for a starter business kit. Too good to be true, right? Yes. Opportunities like this are usually employment scams. They may not always look like this, but job scams in general aim to coerce you into spending money you'll never get back or trick you into giving up your data. Telling them apart from real job opportunities can be tricky, especially when you're itching to find work. Here's how to tell if a job prospect is legitimate or just a scammer after your cash. Read more: Employment Identity Theft Happens More Often Than You Think How job scams work Job scams can take on many different forms depending on the end goal, and practically anyone can be a target. Victims lost $501 million to job and employment agency scams in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission's annual fraud report. Criminals impersonate a recruiter, business owner or hiring manager to advertise fake jobs or opportunities for nefarious purposes. In some cases, fraudsters will set up bots to target people who have posted on LinkedIn about being laid off or being "OpenToWork." Individuals may get seemingly non-targeted text messages about available jobs. These texts are easy to ignore for those who haven't been on the job hunt, but individuals currently looking for a job could easily assume the texts are related to their search. This is an example of an unprompted text message I've received previously. Screenshot by Holly Johnson/CNET I replied to the first message to see what they would say, knowing it was a scam. As a general rule, however, you shouldn't respond to spam messages because it confirms for the scammer that the number is active and that you are willing to respond to future phishing attempts. The recruiter responded by setting up an interview via WhatsApp, but I never showed. Screenshot by Holly Johnson/CNET The FTC warns that some fake job scams promise work-from-home opportunities where you can make thousands of dollars on their own time. But these scams only exist to lure desperate people into purchasing expensive "starter kits" for what they believe to be their new business venture. Reshipping opportunities are yet another popular job scam. This involves the victim agreeing to receive packages at their home that they in turn repackage and ship to another address. The products themselves, often electronics, were likely purchased with stolen credit cards, and before you know it, you've found yourself involved in the middle of a larger scam. The check you're promised for helping ship products also never comes. For more examples of recent scams, you can check the Better Business Bureau scam tracker. Type "job" or "employment" in the search bar to bring up thousands of different employment scam complaints, including details on how they worked and the amount of money lost. How to avoid employment scams online Employment scams can be hard to pin down or notice, particularly if you're searching for work and want to believe any bites from an employer are legitimate. But there are some telltale signs that should set off alarms in your mind. These steps can help you spot fake work opportunities brought to you by scammers: They reach out via text. Unless you know the recruiter, this is suspicious activity. The recruiter requires money up front. No legitimate company will require you to pay to work. If a job asks you to pay a fee or send them money for equipment, it's a scam, even if they say you'll be reimbursed. The compensation is too good to be true. You have an idea of what a job should pay. If the salary is far beyond your own expectations, that's a red flag. The interview is conducted over a messaging service. Many job interviews are done remotely. But they are normally conducted via phone or video conferencing software, such as Zoom or Google Meet. You get an immediate offer. Landing a job should take some time because multiple interviews are often required. Hiring companies will also speak with and vet multiple candidates. If you're still unsure, the FTC recommends researching companies offering you a job to make sure they're legitimate. Also, search for the company name followed by words like "scam" or "review" to see what pops up. If you want to confirm a job opportunity or offer with a legitimate company, cut out the recruiter and reach out to them directly. Can job scams lead to ID theft? Some employment scams exist to steal money from victims, but others may not stop there. Over the job application process, victims might share information that's standard to provide to a new employer, such as their name, birth date, home address and Social Security number. This information can be used by identity thieves to open bank accounts, take out loans or credit cards in your name and even file fraudulent tax returns. As a safety measure, consider freezing your credit with the three major credit bureaus if you fell for a job scam. You should also consider signing up for identity theft protection. These services offer insurance to help pay for necessary expenses if your identity is stolen. How to report employment scams If you come across a fake job offer or employment scam, report it so that others don't fall victim. Here's how: Report the scam to the scam tracker. Report suspected employment fraud to the FTC at Report the fraud to your state attorney general. If you're already the victim of an employment scam, you'll want to take some additional steps to limit damage and protect yourself from identity theft. For example, if you shared sensitive personal information as part of the scam, you can freeze your credit reports or set up fraud alerts on your credit reports. You can also sign up for identity theft protection and monitoring services, which can alert you if someone tries to open an account or apply for a loan in your name. If you already sent money to a scammer, the FTC recommends contacting the company behind the payment method you used (e.g. PayPal, Zelle, a credit card, etc.) to report the fraud and asking them to reverse the transaction. It's unlikely you'll get your money back in most cases, but you won't know unless you ask.
The Independent
6 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Job hunters £5k out of pocket after falling prey to social media scam
Lloyds Bank has reported a 237 per cent surge in "advanced fee" job scams this year, warning job hunters of significant financial losses and potential criminal records. Victims typically lose £1,420, with some out of pocket by over £5,000, and young job seekers aged 18 to 34 are disproportionately targeted. These scams often originate on social media, luring victims with fake remote work offers like liking TikTok videos, then demanding upfront payments for purported necessities such as processing or training. More sophisticated schemes involve fake interviews, contracts, and impersonating genuine recruitment agencies, sometimes manipulating victims into unwitting money laundering. Lloyds advises job seekers to be wary of any requests for payment to apply for a job and to independently research the role and company being presented.
The Independent
7 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Urgent scam warning issued to job hunters that could leave them out of pocket
Job hunters face significant financial losses and potential criminal records from scam advertisements, Lloyds Bank has warned, reporting a staggering 237 per cent surge in "advanced fee" job scams this year. Victims typically lose £1,420, with some out of pocket by over £5,000. Often originating on social media and disguised as remote work or content roles, these fraudulent schemes disproportionately target young job seekers, with the majority of cases seen by the bank involving those aged 18 to 34. Scammers entice victims with fake job offers involving simple online tasks – such as liking TikTok videos or reviewing hotels – promising lucrative commissions and high returns from the comfort of their own homes. However, upfront fees – known as 'advanced fees' – are demanded for purported necessities like application processing, training, background checks, or visa sponsorship. Once payments are made, perpetrators typically cease communication, leaving victims ghosted or blocked. Lloyds highlights the severe financial implications and the potential for victims to inadvertently face a criminal record. In more elaborate and sophisticated cases, scammers simulate entire recruitment processes, Lloyds said, including fake interviews, onboarding and contracts. They may impersonate genuine recruitment agencies and set up fake websites. Victims are sometimes added to WhatsApp group chats or shown fake screenshots of inflated bank balances to give an impression of legitimacy. Victims may make more than one payment during the scam, sometimes paying for what they believe are VIP upgrades for higher earnings or fees to access commissions made. Some scams involve crypto wallets or platforms for task completion, and some victims are even manipulated into forwarding money or acting as intermediaries – unwittingly laundering money – known as money muling. Money mules can find themselves at risk of a criminal record. Christina Ford, fraud investigator at Lloyds, said: 'In my role, I've spoken to a number of customers who have been approached unexpectedly with job offers or they've responded to advertisements promising quick cash or remote working opportunities. 'These offers usually take place on social media platforms, sometimes not even framed as a job advert, but instead in the form of a fake profile talking about a great job opportunity they've had themselves.' She added: 'The roles presented appear simple, such as watching or liking TikTok videos or writing fake reviews to boost company ratings. Customers are told they will earn a set amount per task and initially receive payments into their accounts. 'However, these payments are often sent by other scam victims who believe they are paying to unlock higher-paying tasks.' Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director, Lloyds, said: 'If you find yourself being asked to make any sort of payment to apply for a job, take a step back and ask yourself if the opportunity feels legitimate. 'Take time to independently research the role and company being presented to you.' Lloyds' figures were based on analysis of scams reported by Lloyds Banking Group customers, including customers of Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland between January and June 2025. The 237 per cent increase was calculated by the bank by comparing January with June. Here are Ms Ziegler's tips for avoiding job scams: Be cautious of unsolicited adverts or job offers promising easy money, especially on social media, which is a key 'hunting ground' for fraudsters. If you spot one, report it to Action Fraud. Remember legitimate companies will not ask you to make payments when applying for a job, nor would they ask you use your own bank account to transfer their money. Do not do it under any circumstances. Verify recruiters and companies independently, do your own research and do not rely on links and documents they provide.
The Independent
7 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Job hunters warned about surge in fake ads scamming them out of cash
Job hunters replying to scam ads could find themselves thousands of pounds out of pocket and even at risk of a criminal record in some cases, a major bank is warning. Lloyds said cases of 'advanced fee' job scams have jumped by 237% since the start of this year, with victims losing £1,420 typically and more than £5,000 in some cases. Scams often start on social media and may be disguised as remote work or content roles. Young job hunters are often targeted, with the bulk of cases being seen by the bank involving victims aged 18 to 34. Scammers lure victims with fake job offers which can sometimes involve simple online tasks – such as liking TikTok videos or reviewing hotels – the bank said. Victims are promised commissions and high returns from the comfort of their own homes. But they are told they must pay upfront fees for application processing, training, background checks or even visa sponsorship – known as advanced fees. Once payments are made, victims are often ghosted or blocked. In more elaborate and sophisticated cases, scammers simulate entire recruitment processes, Lloyds said, including fake interviews, onboarding and contracts. They may impersonate genuine recruitment agencies and set up fake websites. Victims are sometimes added to WhatsApp group chats or shown fake screenshots of inflated bank balances to give an impression of legitimacy. Victims may make more than one payment during the scam, sometimes paying for what they believe are VIP upgrades for higher earnings or fees to access commissions made. Some scams involve crypto wallets or platforms for task completion, and some victims are even manipulated into forwarding money or acting as intermediaries – unwittingly laundering money – known as money muling. Money mules can find themselves at risk of a criminal record. Christina Ford, fraud investigator at Lloyds, said: 'In my role, I've spoken to a number of customers who have been approached unexpectedly with job offers or they've responded to advertisements promising quick cash or remote working opportunities. 'These offers usually take place on social media platforms, sometimes not even framed as a job advert, but instead in the form of a fake profile talking about a great job opportunity they've had themselves.' She added: 'The roles presented appear simple, such as watching or liking TikTok videos or writing fake reviews to boost company ratings. Customers are told they will earn a set amount per task and initially receive payments into their accounts. However, these payments are often sent by other scam victims who believe they are paying to unlock higher-paying tasks.' Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director, Lloyds, said: 'If you find yourself being asked to make any sort of payment to apply for a job, take a step back and ask yourself if the opportunity feels legitimate. Take time to independently research the role and company being presented to you.' Lloyds' figures were based on analysis of scams reported by Lloyds Banking Group customers, including customers of Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland between January and June 2025. The 237% increase was calculated by the bank by comparing January with June. Here are Ms Ziegler's tips for avoiding job scams: 1. Be cautious of unsolicited adverts or job offers promising easy money, especially on social media, which is a key 'hunting ground' for fraudsters. If you spot one, report it to Action Fraud. 2. Remember legitimate companies will not ask you to make payments when applying for a job, nor would they ask you use your own bank account to transfer their money. Do not do it under any circumstances. 3. Verify recruiters and companies independently, do your own research and do not rely on links and documents they provide. 4. Avoid opportunities where you are added to unknown apps or group chats that claim to be part of the process.
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Warning by major bank as job scams jump 237% since January - here's what to watch out for
Jobseekers are being warned over too good to be true opportunities in the employment market as scams have more than tripled in six months. Cases of so-called advanced fee job scams have surged by 237 per cent since the beginning of the year, according to Lloyds Banking Group. Tricksters prey on unsuspecting job hunters by posting phoney job adverts or making fake job offers to individuals in need of extra cash. The jobs often involve simple tasks such as liking videos on social media platforms or reviewing hotels - all from the comfort of your own home with little effort required. The crooks lure you in with the promise of high wages or commission, or claim you don't need an interview to be hired. Social media is the origin of most of these scams - some 53 per cent - and an average victim loses £1,420 to these fraudsters, the research reveals. However, some 7 per cent of victims have given away more than £5,000. But how are victims tricked into handing over hundreds or even thousands of pounds of their hard-earned money? Tricksters are preying on unsuspecting job hunters by posting fake job adverts or making fake job offers to individuals in need of extra cash Scammers claim employees must pay upfront fees to process the application, get trained, have a DBS check or even visa sponsorship. Christina Ford, fraud investigator at Lloyds, says sometimes scams aren't even framed as job adverts. Instead, a fake social media profile could rave about an amazing job opportunity they've found - which lures in curious job hunters. 'In my role, I've spoken to a number of customers who have been approached unexpectedly with job offers or they've responded to advertisements promising quick cash or remote working opportunities. 'The roles presented appear simple, such as watching or liking videos or writing fake reviews to boost company ratings. 'Customers are told they will earn a set amount per task and initially receive payments into their accounts. 'However, these payments are often sent by other scam victims who believe they are paying to unlock higher-paying tasks.' The employees may be promised 'VIP' upgrades in the form of tasks which pay more money or commission - but scammers claim payments are needed in order to unlock these higher earning responsibilities. Job hunters could also be lured into making more than one payment with fraudsters claiming they need money for taxes or processing fees. Another trick used by crooks is to claim victims cannot access their commission until a fee has been paid. Victims transfer the money in good faith to the scammers, who then disappear - either ignoring messages from the victim or block them all together. Some scammers even go to extreme lengths to reel in job seekers by arranging fake interviews and contracts, and setting up fake websites of genuine recruitment agencies to con their victims. Some 'employees' are also shown fake screenshots of high bank balances. But these pernicious scams may not always start on social media. You may come across an advert for one of these fake jobs on a website or even be messaged directly via text by a fraudster posing as a recruiter or employer. Victims could even be persuaded to transfer money on behalf of the fraudsters, which makes them a money mule - a criminal offence. Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, says: 'These job scams are evolving rapidly, blending digital sophistication with emotional manipulation. 'Fraudsters are taking advantage of genuine job seekers, drawing them in with fake advertisements giving promises of remote work with big payouts and instead leaving them financially and emotionally drained.' She warns no legitimate company will ask you to make payments in their hiring process or ask you to use your own bank account to transfer money on their behalf. If you have any doubt, verify the recruiter or company independently. Report any unsolicited job offers or adverts to Action Fraud.
