How to Spot and Avoid Job Scams

A job search should never cost you money or put your identity at risk. Scammers prey on hopeful candidates — here's how to recognise and avoid them.

Red flags to watch for

• 🚩 You're asked to pay — for training, equipment, a "background check" or admin fees. Legitimate employers never charge you.
• 🚩 Too good to be true — huge salaries for little work or vague duties.
• 🚩 Pressure to act fast — "send your ID today or lose the offer".
• 🚩 Personal/banking details requested early — before any real interview.
• 🚩 Unprofessional communication — free email addresses, poor grammar, no company footprint.
• 🚩 Pushed off-platform immediately — asked to chat only on a messaging app.

How to protect yourself

• Research the company independently (website, registration, reviews).
• Never share your ID number, banking details or copies of documents until you've verified the employer and have a genuine offer.
• Keep conversations on a reputable platform as long as possible.
• Trust your instincts — if something feels off, pause.

How HelloJobs helps

Recruiters can't pull your contact details from your profile. They must request them, and an administrator approves before anything is shared — and that access can be revoked. Job adverts also can't contain personal contact numbers or emails, which keeps the process above board.

Found something suspicious? Contact our team →