Fake jobs are everywhere. If it’s too good to be true, it is.
Someone posing as a recruiter contacts you
If you’ve created your profile on Indeed, recruiters are able to contact you through Indeed messaging, via text (SMS) or email. If you haven’t created a profile on Indeed, a common warning sign of fake job postings can be when someone claiming to be an employer or hiring manager contacts you first, claiming they found your resume online – move on, fast.
You receive a job offer right away
If you receive a job offer without applying for the job, speaking with a hiring manager, or going through an interview, it can be a major red flag. Being offered a role right away, especially when you did not initiate contact, means the opportunity is not legitimate.
The pay is extremely high
If a job description lists an unusually high salary for the role, it could be a warning sign. For example, if an entry-level position offers $80,000 annually for only 15 to 20 hours of work per week, beware.
The schedule seems too flexible
If a job seems too flexible, it could be a red flag. When combined with unusually high pay, an unconventional schedule might indicate that something is too good to be true.
Job requirements and descriptions are vague
Legitimate job postings usually include clear, detailed descriptions and specific qualifications. In contrast, fake job postings often have vague requirements. Be cautious of opportunities that only ask for simple criteria, like being of legal age, being able to read, or knowing how to type.
The company requires payment from you
Be very cautious of any company, recruiter, or job offer that requires a form of payment from you. Legitimate employers will never require payment for work. It’s a scam.
The job promises that you will get wealthy fast
If a job promises you can build wealth quickly or get rich within a short time, it’s a scam.
Communication appears unprofessional
Unprofessional communication can be a warning sign for fake job postings. If a job offer email contains poor grammar, awkward syntax, or seems overly casual, take a much a closer look and beware.
Contact information for the employer or company is missing
Fake job postings often lack key contact information or may provide vague details about the organisation. Conduct an online search for the company’s website or email address. If you are unable to find basic details, move on.
A company requests confidential information before hiring
When companies hire new employees, they require the completion of tax documents and the submission of bank information for salary. If a recruiter or employer requests personal information such as your bank account information beforethey have hired you, run.