The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has issued a warning to those working in recruitment as well as jobseekers to be aware of the signs of employment ad scams that could leave victims out of pocket and at risk of identity fraud. Fraudsters are trying to deceive job seekers into paying up-front for non-existent DBS checks, particularly during peak recruitment periods. Job hunters are conned into paying upfront for recruitment administration, including a supposed DBS check required for progressing with a job offer.
The Better Hiring Institute have launched the UK’s first free guide for businesses on Hiring Fraud. Working with JobsAware, BHI is raising awareness of job scams which may lead recruitment consultants and those seeking employment to share identity details, and even their own money.
So, what red flags should you watch out for?
➢ Poorly written job adverts – does the job you are applying for sound legitimate? Job advertisements should include roles and responsibilities, desired experience, working hours and expectations, and salary. Job adverts that withhold basic information should be treated as suspicious.
➢ Suspicious contact details – do the contact details look legitimate? Look out for a direct contact person or email address and be wary if there is no point of contact linked with a job advert.
➢ Unrealistic salary – does the salary match the role? This could be a way of drawing you into a role that does not actually exist to gather personal information or bank details.
➢ 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.
➢ Being asked for money - don’t ever send money before starting a job. This includes training, uniforms, or DBS checks. These, in most instances, should be provided by the employer.
➢ 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.
➢ 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.
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The NEBRC was set up to support businesses to prepare and protect from online crime and fraud. The NEBRC is an independent, police led organisation working as part of a national network across the UK.