How to Avoid Job Phishing Scams

We’ve been hearing about increases in phishing scams with job applications and even offers.

Here are some steps to take:

1. Be sure to check the URL and who you’re really applying to.

A lot of job boards (like Indeed) are aggregators that sweep up postings that may or may not still be active or real. You can tell by the options to apply. They can be worth looking at for options, but they don’t guarantee a job is real.

If you’re applying through a recruiting firm, make sure they’re reputable. A great one will be a huge asset to you as they know the process and can ask for next steps more often than you can. At Newance, our sister company, we list the end company in postings because we know we bring real value to the table – no vague “our client” for us.

Most companies redirect to an ATS (applicant tracking system) for their actual application so the URL may change from the company name to another site but it’s easy to see if that company is an ATS. For example, we use RecruiterFlow but our application URL still has Newance in it.

2. An online application that asks for your DOB or part of your SSN is suspicious. Some co’s do use these for unique identifiers or screening down the line but they’re rare in a typical application.

3. I’ve never heard of a real company that just chats with you (no video or additional steps) and then offers you a job via hangouts. If that “offer” then include requests for your info like a W4 or I-9…. ah, run!

Written by Amanda Daering, CEO of newance