Jobseekers Urged to Stay Alert
The latest figures from Scamwatch are alarming, revealing that Australians lost over $8.7 million to recruitment scams in 2022. This highlights the need for jobseekers, especially young people, to be cautious and safeguard their personal information when applying for jobs.
Young Australians at Risk
With thousands of young Australians finishing school or graduating from university, the excitement of embarking on their careers is often accompanied by vulnerability to scammers. The ACCC’s Scamwatch is issuing a warning to young jobseekers to be vigilant, particularly when receiving job offers through social media platforms and messaging services like Whatsapp.
A Targeted Approach
ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard expressed concern about the impact of job scams on younger Australians. Reports indicate that individuals between the ages of 25 and 44 have suffered the most significant losses due to job scams.
Identifying Scam Red Flags
Jobseekers should be wary of offers that promise substantial financial rewards for minimal effort, such as repeatedly clicking buttons on websites or apps to purchase products or submit reviews. Scammers often request payment in exchange for a guaranteed income, posing as reputable companies, online shopping platforms, or well-known recruitment agencies.
Rising Reports, Increasing Concern
Scamwatch received over 3,194 reports of job scams in the past year alone. Many victims were enticed by the prospect of making quick money. As the demand for work intensifies in the new year, there is a growing concern that scammers will capitalize on this by increasing their fraudulent activities.
Stay Skeptical, Take Action
To protect yourself, remember these key precautions:
- Question unrealistic opportunities: Be cautious of job offers that seem too good to be true. If it requires minimal effort but promises substantial financial rewards, it’s likely a scam.
- Never make upfront payments: Legitimate employers do not require payment or upfront investments to secure a job. Be wary of any requests for payment.
- Verify company legitimacy: Research and verify the credibility of companies and recruitment agencies before engaging with them. Don’t be fooled by impersonators.
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. By staying alert and informed, we can protect ourselves and ensure a safer job hunting experience.
(Source: ACCC – Australian Competition and Consumer Commission)
