They say your dream job is just one click away… but in this case, so is identity theft.
In this publication, we're uncovering a fast-growing scam targeting eager new graduates—those fresh out of college or high school—who are applying for jobs online. With the job market already stressful enough, scammers are capitalizing on “easy apply” job platforms to steal personal information under the guise of employment.
Scammers are creating fake job postings online—some impersonating real companies, others made up entirely—to trick recent grads into handing over sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details, and more.
How It Works:
-
Post a Fake Job:
Scammers create listings on job boards or social media, often offering attractive pay and flexible hours. -
Lure with Easy Applications:
Many job seekers use “one-click apply” tools and apply to dozens of listings without vetting each one carefully. -
Request Personal Info:
Once a candidate is “hired,” they’re asked to fill out forms with personal details like their Social Security number, bank info, or even to purchase equipment upfront. -
Vanishing Act:
After collecting what they need, the scammer disappears—often leaving behind no way to trace the company or recover the information.
Who’s Targeted:
Recent high school and college graduates, especially those applying for entry-level or remote positions.
Job seekers using platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or random recruiter emails are especially vulnerable due to the ease of application and volume of listings.
Real-Life Example:
Toddnetta Trice of the Better Business Bureau warns:
“Students are applying to so many jobs, especially with easy apply—it’s so easy to just click one button and you’ve applied to a job.”
Unfortunately, many of those “easy” applications are landing in the hands of scammers. Victims often don’t realize it’s a scam until they’ve shared key information and never hear back—or worse, find out their identity was stolen.
Why You Should Care:
If you (or someone you love) is applying for jobs, especially online, this scam could cost far more than wasted time. Victims have reported:
- Stolen identities
- Drained bank accounts
- Ruined credit
- Delays in landing real employment due to fraud alerts or suspicious activity on their records
Graduating is hard enough without your financial future being hijacked before you even get your first paycheck.
How to Protect Yourself:
Research every employer. Google the company, visit their actual website, and check if the job posting is listed there too.
Check the sender’s email address. Real companies use official domains, not free Gmail or Yahoo accounts.
Don’t share personal info early. No real job asks for your Social Security number or banking info before an official offer is signed.
Use the BBB Scam Tracker. Before applying, check the company name there to see if any red flags pop up.
Call the company. If in doubt, contact them directly using the number listed on their verified site—not one sent in a random email.
Quick Tips & Updates:
Quick Tip #1: Did you know? Scammers often post fake jobs on real job boards. Just because it’s on a reputable site doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Pro Tip: Always ask yourself: “Would this be too good to be true?” If the pay is sky-high and the duties are vague—it probably is.
Update: The BBB reports a seasonal rise in job-related scams every May and June as students graduate. Stay alert, especially now.
Stay safe, stay informed,
Keywords:
• Fake Job Scam – A fraud scheme where criminals post fake job listings to steal personal information.
• Identity Theft – When someone illegally uses your personal data to commit fraud or theft.
• “Easy Apply” Scam – A method where scammers exploit quick-apply features on job sites to collect personal info fast.
• BBB Scam Tracker – A tool from the Better Business Bureau to report and review scams.
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