Recruitment scams

Recruitment scams are on the rise, with fraudsters increasingly using sophisticated tactics to impersonate legitimate agencies and employers. These scams not only exploit vulnerable jobseekers but also damage the hard-earned reputations of genuine recruitment companies.

In the year ending June 2024, there were an estimated 3.56 million fraud incidents in England and Wales. This was an increase from the 1.15 million the year before, highlighting the magnitude of the issue.

At March Recruitment, we understand the distress and frustration these scams cause because we, too, have been targeted. At the start of the year scammers impersonated our organisation, using our name to post fake job adverts and contact individuals with fraudulent job offers. Thankfully we were able to address the issue and take the necessary steps to report this activity and stop it in its tracks.

Below we uncover the subtle warning signs of these scams and offer advice on how to protect yourself effectively should you fall victim.

The rise of recruitment scams

According to Action Fraud, the number of reported recruitment scams is steadily increasing, with scammers exploiting reputable job websites to target unsuspecting jobseekers. Companies like Indeed.com have stated they remove millions of questionable job listings monthly, but the onus remains on individuals to remain vigilant.

These fraudsters are using sophisticated methods to impersonate genuine recruitment agencies and employers, posting fake job adverts and contacting individuals via platforms like WhatsApp, email, and social media. Victims are often asked to share sensitive personal information, such as passport details, bank information, or National Insurance numbers. In some cases, they are even conned into paying advance fees for training, background checks, or fake job guarantees.

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Warning signs of recruitment scams

Knowing the red flags is key to protecting yourself. Here are the common warning signs:

• Unsolicited contact: Receiving unexpected WhatsApp messages, emails, or phone calls offering jobs is a major warning sign. Genuine recruiters typically don’t contact you without prior engagement.
• Pressure to act quickly: Scammers often push you to provide information or make payments immediately, leaving little time to verify their legitimacy.
• Requests for sensitive information: Legitimate recruiters will never ask for your bank account details or National Insurance number before a job offer.
• Advance fees: Avoid offers that require payment for background checks, training, or administrative fees upfront.
• Poor communication: Look out for generic email addresses, spelling errors, and unprofessional communication.
• Too good to be true offers: Be sceptical of job adverts with unusually high salaries or perks for roles requiring minimal qualifications.
• Lack of company verification: If the recruiter or job advert cannot be verified through official company channels, proceed with caution.

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How to protect yourself

To safeguard yourself against these scams, start by verifying job listings. If you come across an advert,
cross-check it with the official website of the recruitment agency or employer. Many legitimate agencies
post their vacancies directly on their websites, making it easier to validate the authenticity of a job.

Research recruiters thoroughly. Take the time to look up the recruiter’s name and contact details. Visit
the company’s website to ensure the person contacting you is an actual employee. LinkedIn can also be a
useful tool for verifying professional profiles. If you have doubts about a job offer, call the agency using
the official phone number listed on their website. Speaking to someone directly can often clarify
whether a job opportunity is legitimate.

Exercise caution with personal information. Only share sensitive details such as your passport or National
Insurance number after confirming that the job offer and company are authentic. Legitimate agencies
will never demand personal information before an interview process has begun.

Avoid paying upfront fees. Be wary of opportunities that require you to pay for training, background
checks, or other services before starting a job. Genuine agencies and employers typically cover these
costs themselves. Be mindful of unrealistic job offers. If a job advert promises an exceptionally high
salary for minimal qualifications, it’s likely too good to be true. Conduct a reality check by comparing the
offer with industry norms.

Finally, check email addresses for professionalism. Legitimate correspondence will come from verifiable
domains associated with the company, not generic services like Gmail or Yahoo.

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Organisations that can help

If you’ve fallen victim to a recruitment scam, there are several organisations that can provide assistance
and advice:

• Action Fraud: The UK’s national fraud reporting centre. Website: www.actionfraud.police.uk
• National Trading Standards eCrime Team: Works to disrupt fraudulent websites. Contact: Via your local trading standards office.
• Citizens Advice: Offers free advice on dealing with fraud: Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
• Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC): Represents compliant recruitment agencies. Website: www.rec.uk.com

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Raising awareness

Recruitment scams impact both jobseekers and legitimate agencies. Sharing your experiences can prevent others from falling victim. Use social media and professional networks to alert your peers and encourage scrutiny of job offers.

As a recruitment company, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity. By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid scams and focus on genuine career opportunities.