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Scam guide

Spotting fake job offers

Top tips to avoid job scams

Job scams are misleading adverts that trick people into applying for fake jobs. These scams can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and wasted time. Being aware of these scams can help you to protect yourself and keep your money secure.

  1. Don’t pay to work: A real company won’t ask you to pay to get a job.
  2. Be wary of requests for personal information: If a job application asks for too much personal information or ID verification too soon, it could be a warning sign.
  3. Check email addresses: Always look at the email domain. Does it match the company’s site? For example, an email from RBS would end with ‘@rbs.co.uk,’ just like our website. Look out for a misspelled version or variation of the company’s actual domain.
  4. Search for the company’s site: Find the official careers page or search ‘company name and job title.’ If the job is real, it should be there. You can check Companies House to confirm a recruiter’s contact details, including a web address.
  5. Expect a proper recruitment process: If someone gets in touch to offer you a job with no application process or interview, it might be a scam.

Scam watch: Fake ID verification check schemes are on the rise

Fraudsters are using the guise of pre-employment checks to steal a person's identity and open bank accounts or apply for loans using their details. They will ask you to verify your ID before proceeding with your application, often even before the interview stage, through a verification portal link.

Genuine recruiters may ask for your contact details, CV, references, and salary expectations. However, they should always be open and honest about why they need this information.

Read the signs of job scams below to spot these scams. Always be cautious about providing any personal or financial information until you are sure that the employer and job offer are legitimate.

Signs of job scams

There's an increase in scammers pretending to be well-known organisations or recruiters to steal your money or personal information.

  • Requests for personal and financial information: Avoid sharing sensitive details such as your bank account information, National Insurance number, date of birth, or home address, early in the hiring process.
  • Informal channels: Be careful if you're contacted through personal emails, messaging apps or social media. Real employers use official company channels. Use LinkedIn to check a recruiter's profile. A real recruiter will have a solid work history and connections.
  • Unusual salary promises: if a salary seems too high for the job, it might be a scam.
  • Vague job descriptions: if the job description is unclear or lacks specific responsibilities, it could be a scam.
  • Pressure to act quickly: scammers often create a sense of urgency. They may pressure you to apply immediately or without asking for any previous experience. Take your time and check it’s a genuine opportunity. 
  • You didn't apply for the job: scammers may approach you saying they've reviewed your CV or profile, but you never applied or shared it with them.

If you think you’ve been scammed, contact Police Scotland for help. If you’ve made a payment, get in touch with us as soon as possible.