Job Scams: Spot, Stop, and Safeguard

A student guide from the UMass Dartmouth Career Center

Spot the red flags

Scammers target job seekers, especially students, by impersonating employers and offering "too good to be true" opportunities. Here’s what to look for:

Common warning signs

Unrealistic pay: Very high salary for minimal effort or qualifications.
No application needed: You’re offered a job you never applied for.
Vague or generic job descriptions: Lack of detail or clarity.
Requests for payment: For equipment, background checks, or training.
Early ask for personal info: SSN, bank info, passport, etc.
Unprofessional communication: Bad grammar, odd email domains (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo).
Text-only interviews: Interviews via messaging apps like WhatsApp or Zoom Chat.
Mismatch in contact info: Recruiter email doesn't match company website domain.
Pressure to act fast: "You must respond today!" is a red flag.

Common scam types

Fake check/money mule: They send you a check (often oversized), ask you to deposit it, keep some, and wire the rest back or to a "vendor" for "supplies". The check bounces later, leaving you responsible for the lost funds.
Remote data entry/task scams: Offering simple online tasks with high pay, often requiring you to buy software or training first. The work might be fake, or they might not pay you. Particularly common for remote/online job seekers.
Phishing: Using fake websites or emails that look real to steal your login credentials, SSN, or financial info.
Impersonation: Scammers pretending to be recruiters from real, well-known companies, sometimes using slightly altered logos or emails.

Stay safe during job search

Use these tips to protect yourself while job and internship hunting

Before you apply

Research the company: Use official websites, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or CareerShift.
Verify contacts: Confirm recruiter identity and email legitimacy.
Check the job posting source: Use trusted sites like Handshake or LinkedIn.
Search online: Google the company name + "scam," "review," or "complaint". Search for the recruiter's name and email, too.
Call to confirm: Find the company's official phone number on their website (not in the suspicious email) and call HR to verify the job opening and the recruiter.

Never share these upfront

Social security number (SSN)
Bank account or payment app details
Passport or driver’s license
Money or payments for a job

Protect your accounts

Use strong, unique passwords.
Enable two-factor authentication.
Don’t reuse passwords across platforms.

Verify before you trust

Ask these questions

Could you please provide a detailed written job description, including specific daily tasks and performance expectations? (Scammers often have vague or copied descriptions).
Who would I be reporting to directly? Could you tell me their name and title, and perhaps connect us briefly?
What is the standard interview process for this role at your company? Will there be phone or video interviews with team members or hiring managers? (Push back against text-only interviews).
Can you provide the specific street address for the office or headquarters location? (Even for remote jobs, there's usually a main office).
What is the company's official website URL? (Verify it matches your research).
Could you please send the job offer details in a formal document from your official company email address?
Politely decline early requests for sensitive information: "I'm very interested in the role. I'd be happy to provide that information during the official onboarding process after accepting a formal written offer."
If asked to pay: "Could you clarify why there is a fee associated with this position? Typically, employers cover costs like training and equipment."