Remember the good old days when the biggest job scam was a prince asking for your bank account to share his fortune? Well, those days are long gone. With the rise of AI, scammers have leveled up their game. Let’s dive into how artificial intelligence is contributing to the surge in job scams and what you can do to stay safe. Buckle up; it's a wild ride!
The Scam
The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) recently reported a staggering 118% increase in job scams in 2023, despite an overall 18% drop in reported scams. The rise of generative AI has enabled identity thieves to create more convincing fake job postings, complete with professional-looking profiles and websites. These scammers use legitimate job search platforms like LinkedIn to lure victims, then move the interview process off-platform to collect sensitive personal information.
Victims often feel secure sharing details like their driver’s license, Social Security number, and direct deposit information, believing these requests are part of a legitimate hiring process. It’s only after the scammers disappear or ask for additional sensitive information that suspicion arises.
Types of Scam(s)
- Job Scams: Fake job postings created to steal personal information.
- Identity Theft: Collecting sensitive personal information under the guise of a job application process.
Regulator-Validated Practices
- Verify Job Postings: Always confirm the legitimacy of job postings by contacting the company directly through official channels.
- Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive personal information unless you are sure of the legitimacy of the request. Verify through multiple sources if necessary.
- Use Secure Communication: Keep communication on the original job platform. Be wary of requests to move to email, text, or other messaging apps.
- Phone Verification: Pick up the phone and call the company directly using verified contact information to confirm the job offer and the details.
Complex Terms Defined
- Generative Artificial Intelligence: AI systems that can generate text, images, or other media in response to prompts.
- Deepfakes: Media created using AI to superimpose existing images or videos onto source content, making it appear authentic.
Stay vigilant, Scamstallers! Always verify job postings and companies before sharing any personal information. If something feels off, trust your gut and double-check. Remember, a little caution can save a lot of trouble.
For more details on this surge in job scams, click here to read the original post.