KEY POINTS
- The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) reported a surge in online job scams, assisting 492 victims in 2023, up from 226 in 2022. In January 2024 alone, they saw a staggering 545% increase in reported victims compared to December 2023 (Security Boulevard, ITRC Finds Online Job Scams on the Rise)
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that in 2023, “business and job opportunity” scams reached around 105,000, costing victims a staggering $450 million. This represents a more than five-fold increase over the past five years. (Axios, Job scams skyrocket)
- According to the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) Boston affiliate, data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shows job scams have nearly tripled since the outbreak of COVID-19. In the first nine months of 2023 alone, the FTC received nearly 61,000 complaints regarding job scams, resulting in losses exceeding $186 million for victims. (NBC Boston, Seeker beware: How to avoid being duped by job scams)
The internet has revolutionized how we go about searching for jobs, but with convenience comes the need for caution. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, We have seen many online job seekers fall victim to scams or expose their information unintentionally. Searching for a job is already stressful, and worrying if the job your applying for is a scam or not only adds to that. To aid you in your job search, we’ve provided 3 key tips that you can use to navigate the online job market safely:
1. Be Wary of Where You Post Your Resume:
- Stick to established job boards with a proven track record. These platforms have security measures in place and often screen postings for legitimacy.
- Before uploading your resume, understand the website’s privacy policy. Does it clearly state how your information will be used and protected?
- Be wary of job boards asking for excessive personal information or those with poorly written postings. If something feels off, it probably is.
2. Scrutinize Job Offers and Company Information:
- If a job offer seems unbelievably good, it likely is. Scammers often lure victims with high salaries and minimal requirements.
- Before getting too invested, verify the company’s existence through official channels. A legitimate company will have a professional website and social media presence.
- Real companies don’t ask job seekers for money upfront for interviews or background checks.
3. Secure Your Online Identity:
- Use strong, unique passwords for all job board accounts and enable MFA whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.
- Don’t click on links in emails or messages from unknown senders, especially those promising job offers.
- Consider creating a professional email address specifically for your job search, keeping your personal information separate.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of online scams and protect your privacy while searching for your dream job. Remember, staying safe online is an ongoing process, so be vigilant and don’t hesitate to research further if something seems suspicious. Happy Job Hunting!
Have any questions regarding saying safe online while searching for a new job? Contact us and we will be delighted to assist you with your security needs! Make sure to subscribe to our mailing list to stay up-to-date with our latest security tips and tricks.
Additional Resources