1. Do your research! Be sure to look up this person or company on the internet. Pay attention to the results past the top suggestions. More often than not, there are plenty of job reviews nowadays. Dig into those reviews to get a feel of what you are getting into.
2. When the recruiter reaches out, pay attention to the formatting of their message. Are there typos? Are the messages back-to-back? Is it from an unprofessional account or email address? They should always include several forms of contact with company information on their email as well.
3. If they don't ask for other forms of contact besides text or email, ask. A scammer is most likely to flee after confrontation, but be cautious, some may agree. Most reliable recruiters may initially contact you through text or email, but will readily agree to speak face-to-face, over the phone, or video.
4. Be wary of upfront costs. If there’s a required payment for submitting an application, training, or equipment use it’s most likely a scam.
5. Lastly, do not give over your personal information. This may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised. Anyone asking you initially for your personal sensitive information like your social security or bank information is not coming from a good place. Companies may require personal information in the future, but it is more likely down the road if so. After determining its legitimacy, make sure you are utilizing a secure web portal as well.

What to do?

1. If the scammer is attempting to impersonate a legitimate company, notify them so legal action can be taken and they are informed.
2. Report them to these institutions as well:

-Federal Bureau of Investigations

-Federal Trade Commission

-Better Business Bureau

1. If you think your information has been stolen by the scammer act immediately. Freeze your credit, notify your financial institutions, and change your current passwords.

Remember, job sites will always do their best to post trusting content, however some exceptions can slip through from time to time. Always use caution and don’t participate in suspicious scenarios. Real recruiters will not demand that type of information upon first meeting. Though these things can happen, do not be afraid of applying for opportunities online. Just remember to exercise research and awareness.

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