New Year jobseekers urged to watch out for 7 signs of job scams

DBS is putting jobseekers on alert for the scams that could leave them victims of theft and fraud.

Jobseekers are being put on alert for the 7 signs of scams that could leave them out of pocket and at risk of identity fraud.

January and February are acknowledged within the recruitment industry as peak job search months[1] – providing prime opportunities for scammers to exploit.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is working with JobsAware to raise awareness of job scams that might lead people down the path of sharing identity details, and even their own money, in the mistaken belief they are in line for new employment. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

1. Poorly written job adverts

It is important that the job you are applying for sounds legitimate. It should include roles and responsibilities, desired experience, working hours and expectations, and salary. Job adverts that withhold basic information should be treated as suspicious.

2. Suspicious contact details

Are the contact details legitimate? Look out for a direct contact person or email address. Be wary if there is no point of contact linked with a job advert.

3. Unrealistic salary

Does the salary not seem to match the role? This could be a way of drawing you into a role that does not actually exist in order to gather personal information or bank details.

4. A job offer without an interview

Being offered a job automatically without having met a member of the hiring company is automatically a red flag. You should always ask to meet face-to-face or online with the hiring manager.

5. Being asked for money

Don’t ever send money before starting a job. This includes for training, uniforms, orDBS checks. These, in most instances, should be provided by the employer.

6. Illegitimate companies or illegitimate emails

If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a company, you can check this using Companies House via GOV UK.

7. UK domains

If the domain is outside the UK, ensure to look into the company further. Online jobs can be legitimate but require extra vigilance.