Technology has made life so much easier and more difficult at the same time, over the past 10 years. On the dark side, we are victims of scams, identity theft and hacking. Now a new cause for concern (at least it’s new to me): Fake jobs.
The way it works is a job opening is posted on the web or even placed in your local newspaper. The job sounds like it’s ideal, the pay is terrific and you can work remotely. Sounds perfect. In fact, it may be. However, be cautious and double check factors that can tip you off that you may be applying for a fake job.
Why would someone post a job that doesn’t exist? To get your personal data. Here’s how it works:
- A job that doesn’t exist is posted on the website from a company that doesn’t exist. It could be a known company, but the website is a phony that is being spoofed.
- You apply and get an email that asks for a telephone interview or even a Skype. It still seems on the up-and-up when the interview goes well.
- The interviewer sounds very encouraging that you seem to be the right candidate and are a shoe-in to be a finalist.
- Comments like, “Your potential income is totally based on the time and effort you put into the preparation. It just takes a few hours a day to follow up on pre-qualified buyers. Just follow the guidelines in the training manual and you’ll get an order at an average rate of 75%”.
- Now the stage is set. The interviewer says in order to schedule an interview with the hiring manager at the home office, he/she needs some basic information beyond your resume.
- An actual letter of offer comes through, but some added information is requested: A copy of your latest tax return (to make sure you’re stable), your social security number (to make the appropriate tax deductions), your driver’s license (to make sure you are mobile), and a copy of a major credit card number (for confirmation of your credit worthiness)
- Now what happens? You never hear from them again but you begin to get charges to your credit card and penetration into your banking and debit cards.
So, how do you know it’s a fake job? First, when you get an email, make sure the return address matches the company name. Check out their website under “open positions”. The job should be listed. If there’s no position description or it doesn’t make sense, beware. The interviews may be shaky or amateurish. You can’t find the company on Google or LinkedIn or the BBB.
What should you do? Never, ever give personal or private information to anyone on-line or over the telephone. Ask to visit the home office or the place where you’ll report. If you’re convinced of a scam, contact local authorities, or the FBI.
Protect yourself from fake opportunities.
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