Fake Job Scams

What it is

Fake job scams use a supposed employment opportunity to steal money, identity records, or account access. They range from copied company listings to fake recruiters and work-from-home offers. A scam may also recruit you to move stolen money or reship goods, exposing you to legal and financial consequences beyond a lost application fee.

How it works

The recruiter offers attractive pay with minimal screening, often through messaging-only interviews. They request equipment fees or send a check and ask you to buy supplies from a designated seller. Funds may appear available before the check is finally rejected; money you sent onward can remain your loss.

How people get tricked

Company logos, a plausible contract, and hope of getting work lower skepticism. Real employers sometimes collect sensitive records during onboarding, so the key is verifying both the employer and the stage of the process before sharing them.

Example scenario

A recruiter sends a check for office equipment and asks you to transfer part to a supplier. The check is later reversed, but your payment went to the scammer and cannot necessarily be recovered.

Warning signs

• You must pay to secure the role or forward part of a payment.
• The recruiter cannot be confirmed through the company's official contact channels.
• The job requires using your personal bank account to move other people's funds.

If it happens to you

Contact your bank immediately if you deposited a suspicious check or sent money. Preserve the listing and conversation, report the impersonation, and follow identity-protection steps if documents were supplied. Do not continue transfers or reshipping to 'finish' the role.