Protect Yourself From Job Scam

As if job searching isn’t tough enough, in Nigeria we also have to look out for the ever-present ‘job scam’. As you may know these are situations when a job opening is advertised, and desperate job seekers are conned out of their savings by the lure of a potential job offer. These scams come in many guises, and even the most savvy job seeker could be caught out. There are quite a large number Jobs Vacancies in Nigeria published every now and then; online, posters seen in our streets, via SMS, etc

Too good to be true?

Con artists pose as employers or recruiters and offer enticing employment or career opportunities. If a job offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Fraudulent employers use false job applications to collect personal details such as phone numbers and addresses from job hunters as part of an identity theft ploy.

Keep a few basic security precautions in mind when evaluating ads on job boards - and most especially job offers received via unsolicited email – and look out for these red flags:

Inflated salaries

If a position has a high salary and promises big part-time earning potential, then be careful. These positions will also seldom offer regular salaried employment. These positions also often overhype the job demand or amount of available work, provoking job seekers into acting quickly – and rashly.

No skills required

Fraudulent job offers generally understate the amount of time and effort needed to perform the job, and minimize the requirements, experience or qualifications necessary to apply. Beware of phrases like "No experience is necessary" and vague job titles like “Graduate Trainee”. They will also be unclear about the company, job description or responsibilities. Plenty of money for minimum effort? It’s likely a scam.

Payment upfront
You’re being hired to do a job and to be paid for it. So any job offer that requires money for instructions before explaining how the employment works, or demands fees or making purchases to receive a job or employment opportunities is not genuine.

A solid offer

If you are pretty sure that the offer is legitimate, then go ahead and ask questions. Valid employers will be willing to answer questions about the company and job advertised. Steer clear of those not willing to provide the details you require.