While job hunting, job seekers can look out fro these few tells to avoid getting scammed. Image-Canva
Job Hunting? How to spot a SCAM
Job hunting could leave you exposed to various scams. Here are some RED flags to look out for on your job seeking journey.
While job hunting, job seekers can look out fro these few tells to avoid getting scammed. Image-Canva
In today’s digital age, job hunting leaves you more susceptible to scams than ever before. WhatsApp, a widely used messaging platform, has become a breeding ground for fraudulent job offers.
In recent weeks, Cape Town faced a troubling EPWP job scam circulating via WhatsApp, and urged residents to be vigilant.
ALSO READ:Beware of EPWP job scams in Cape Town
According to reports, these scams promise lucrative opportunities, but they can lead to financial loss and personal information theft.
Job hunting? Tips to spot a scam
First and foremost, be wary of job offers that sound too good to be true. Scammers often dangle unrealistically high salaries and extravagant benefits to lure unsuspecting victims.
These offers often lack proper job descriptions or company information.
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Second, check the source of the job posting. Legitimate job opportunities come from established companies with a digital presence.
Do your research to ensure that the company actually exists and is hiring.
Third, be cautious if the employer requests personal or financial information early in the recruitment process. Genuine employers usually ask for such details after an initial interview or job offer.
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Another red flag is poor grammar and spelling in job listings or messages. Scammers may not be proficient in the language used, leading to inconsistent and error-filled communication.
Fifth, never send money to secure a job or to cover application fees. Legitimate employers do not require candidates to pay for job opportunities. Scammers often use this as an excuse to steal your money.
If you receive a job offer via WhatsApp, contact the company directly using official contact details from their website or social media profiles. This helps you verify the authenticity of the job offer.
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Common red flags provided by the City
- The recruiter initiates contact with you.
- You receive a job offer immediately, often without an interview.
- The offered pay is unreasonably high for the job type.
- Job requirements and descriptions are vague or unclear.
- The company asks for payment from you as part of the application process.
- The job makes unrealistic promises of quick wealth.
- Communication from the company is unprofessional and riddled with spelling and grammar errors.
- Contact information for the employer or company is missing or dubious.
- The company requests sensitive personal information before hiring.
By staying vigilant and following these precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to WhatsApp job scams.
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