Fri. Mar 22nd, 2024
Be Savvy Against ScamsBe Savvy Against Scams

TL;DR – Be weary of job scams. They could come in the form of WhatsApp text messages or personalised emails. Read on to see how you can safeguard yourself. 

Job scams are on the rise in Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. And up to 70% of those getting scammed were allegedly aged between 20 to 39.

They fell for the trap because of the following reasons:

  1. They have a bigger risk appetite in trying out new roles
  2. They are savvy online and job scammers have progressively moved online
  3. They are active on social media so the messages from job scammers on social media or phone apps seemed personal and sincere

Think twice before giving away your personal information

Job scams are cleverly disguised to phish out your personal information. Unsuspecting applicants will provide their details as it is common for hiring managers to ask for them in a job application.

The scammer may not have any monetary gain from you after you have provided your personal information (e.g., IC number, phone number etc.). Several scammers use this personal data to take out massive loads without your knowledge.

Never pay money for a job

Scammers will send out messages to potential victims about an easy side gig that they can perform remotely, such as liking social media posts. The message will lead them to websites that entice them to sign up for packages in order to be offered such jobs. Depending on the package they pay for, the amount of commission they are to be purportedly paid will differ.

READ MORE:  3 traits Scammers prey on

To purchase the package, they will be given the bank account details of unknown individuals to make the transfer. Soon after, they will realize they are not getting paid and are unable to withdraw the promised commissions.

Another example

There are more fake apps coming up, so be warned! Victims are told to download an app from unverified websites where they can supposedly take on lucrative jobs.

Victims were told to transfer funds to bank accounts or cryptocurrency wallets provided by the scamper. In return, they were promised a commission after a number of assigned tasks is completed.

Victims may feel assured at first as the app records the commission they have “earned” after completing several tasks. And we know how it will end eventually…

Preventive measures

There are more ways than one for scammers to phish out your personal information or dipping into your pockets, so we need to do some due diligence to safeguard ourselves.

Research the company to understand the company’s background, business field and size to access the likelihood of it being a scam.

When in doubt, check whether the company is registered in your country and if the details such as the company address and phone number match with the information online.

If it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam! Here are some ways you can take action against job scams:

  • Do not open any links
  • Do not respond to the sender or provide any personal or financial details
  • Report it and delete it

Read another scam-related article here.

Survey: 9 in 10 food delivery riders are concerned for their future  

By Wesley

A Singaporean talking about anything related to Singapore and Singaporeans. Current affairs junkie!