Beware of WhatsApp recruitment scams
At Australasian Recruitment Company, we want to keep you informed about the latest scams targeting job seekers. Scammers are using WhatsApp to contact candidates with fake job offers, often promising easy, remote work with good pay. Here’s what to look out for and how to stay safe.
How the scam works
Fake job offers: Scammers reach out through WhatsApp, email or text, claiming to offer flexible, well-paying remote jobs. These might sound perfect for earning extra income or saving for big expenses like education.
Convincing interviews and communications: The scammers make their scheme seem legitimate by conducting what appears to be a real interview over the phone. They may also send multiple messages and make several calls, creating the impression of a serious recruitment process.
Requests for personal and financial information: Once they’ve gained your trust, they’ll ask for sensitive details – often claiming they need them for payroll or to process payments for work-related expenses.
Malware and account access: In some cases, they may convince you to install apps or open links that put malware on your phone. This malware can be used to access your bank details or make unauthorised transactions.
Unauthorised transactions: Using the information or access they’ve gained, scammers then make large withdrawals or payments from your bank account. Often, victims don’t realise until they see substantial losses, by which point it can be difficult to recover the funds.
Tips to protect yourself
Verify job offers: If a job offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the legitimacy of the recruiter or agency by checking their official website or contacting them directly.
Be wary of unsolicited messages: Genuine recruitment agencies rarely reach out through WhatsApp without prior contact. Treat unsolicited messages with caution.
Protect your information: Never share sensitive information like bank details or National Insurance numbers over WhatsApp or phone, especially early in a recruitment process.
Avoid clicking on unknown links: Be cautious of links or attachments in messages. Scammers may use these to install malware on your device.
Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you’re being pressured to act quickly, pause and evaluate. Reputable employers will understand if you need time to think things over.
If you suspect that you’ve been targeted by a scam or have concerns about a job offer, please contact us. We’re here to help ensure your job search is safe and successful!
Reporting a scam message
WhatsApp has lots of advice on how to protect yourself from scams on its website. You can report a scam text message by forwarding it to 7726 which spells out SPAM on a keypad. If it’s a spam email forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk.