How to Spot Job Scams

Finding the ideal job within journalism can be daunting amidst the plethora of job descriptions and online resources available. Distinguishing between genuine opportunities and fraudulent job offers from scammers adds another layer of complexity. Despite their deceptive resemblance to authentic opportunities, scams exhibit identifiable traits. Recognizing these traits is crucial in navigating towards reliable and suitable job prospects. Job scams can surface on reputable platforms like LinkedIn, even going as far as scheduling extensive interviews to lower the inquirers guard. Thus, discerning scams from authentic opportunities is imperative.

Here are a few ways journalists can determine if a job posting is legitimate.

Sounding Too Good to Be True

80% of individuals targeted by scammers, as per BBB Scam Tracker, noted that the initial contact was made by the scammer, commonly through platforms like job boards or social media. These fraudulent "employers" frequently extend immediate job offers or claim that progress has already been made through the initial selection stages, positioning them as a finalist for the position to lure them in. If journalists come across a job description advertising an unusually high income for the position, it should raise a red flag. For example, if an entry level job is promising over $70,000 for a part time position, it is advisable to conduct thorough research on both the company and the position before proceeding with an application. Furthermore, it is a red flag if the schedule seems to be a little too flexible and accommodating. 

The Recruiter is Asking for Money or Confidential Information

Certain fraudulent individuals may request your bank account details under the guise of setting up direct deposit or facilitating money transfers. Alternatively, they might instruct you to open a new bank account and provide the related information. Another tactic involves directing inquirers to a website where they are asked to complete a credit report form or disclose confidential information under the pretext of enrolling them in company insurance. Identity theft schemes may prompt them to provide sensitive details such as their Social Security number, birth date, and other personal information.

Caution should also be exercised when payment is demanded. Legitimate job opportunities do not require any form of payment for employment. While it is reasonable to budget for expenses incurred during the job search, such as transportation costs or professional attire, journalists should never be required to pay for the privilege of interviewing or accepting a job offer.

Information is Missing or Suspicious

Prior to committing to an interview, it is important to conduct thorough research. Legitimate companies typically have online presences where information can be found about them. While finding information does not guarantee legitimacy, the absence of any online footprint is a red flag indicative of a potential scam. When researching the company online, journalists should not only search for the company's name but also for the email address provided. Additionally, journalists should copy and paste paragraphs from the email into a search engine. Scammers often alter the company name while reusing other elements of the email, so identical emails might be discovered posted online, further raising suspicions.

Finding the perfect job can feel like navigating through a maze of possibilities, with the added challenge of discerning genuine opportunities from elaborate scams. As our digital world continues to expand, so too do the avenues for fraudulent actors to exploit eager job seekers. Maintaining a critical eye and conducting thorough research can be the shield against falling victim to these deceptive practices. Armed with vigilance and the knowledge of their practices, journalists can empower themselves to distinguish the real from the counterfeit.