Safe job searching

Navigating the job market can be challenging, and unfortunately, job scams add another layer of complexity. Job scams are fraudulent schemes designed to trick job seekers into providing personal information, financial details or even paying for fake job opportunities. Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated, creating fake websites, email addresses and job postings that closely mimic legitimate companies. By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself and focus on finding genuine employment opportunities.

Warning signs of a job scam

Before applying for any jobs, it’s important to assess if the employer and job advertisement are legitimate. Some warning signs to look out for are:

  • Asking for personal or sensitive information (e.g. tax file number, bank account or ID) as part of the application process or before being offered the job
  • Charging an upfront fee (i.e. for ‘processing’ your application or to secure the job/internship)
  • Requesting you download and/or communicate via private messaging apps (i.e. Zangi, Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp)
  • Generic email addresses that do not contain the company name in the email domain or contain typos/variations in the domain (i.e. @micros0ft.com instead of @microsoft.com)
  • Promises of ‘guaranteed’ jobs or unrealistic pay for minimal effort
  • Recruitment processes where you have no or limited interaction with the employer
  • Not attending an interview or the interview being conducted via message chat or at a private residence
  • A money transfer into your bank account where you can retain a portion as ‘payment’ and transfer the rest
  • Asking you to purchase software or equipment from their preferred supplier using your own money, with the promise that you will be reimbursed
  • Asking you to purchase gift cards
  • Lack of company contact information or vague job descriptions
  • Poorly written messages and spelling errors
  • Unsolicited job offers via email or text

Warning signs of a questionable employer

Some legitimate employers may also engage in poor or questionable workplace practices, which can negatively impact you or your well-being at work. Some warning signs to look out for are:

  • Missing details about pay, hours or job expectations
  • Cash-in-hand payments or refusal to provide contracts
  • Rushing decisions or avoiding questions
  • Unpaid trial shifts, underpayment or unsafe work conditions
  • No ABN, poor online presence or bad reviews

What to do if you think a job might be a scam

  1. Pause and assess – If something feels off, trust your instincts
  2. Protect your information – Never share personal details unless you’re sure it’s legitimate
  3. Secure your accounts – If you’ve shared financial details, contact your bank immediately. Also consider updating passwords and running a virus scan on your computer
  4. Take action – If you’ve already engaged, block the sender and report the scam via Scamwatch. You can also make an official report to the police online
  5. Contact us – If the job is listed on the DeakinTALENT Jobs and Internships Board, please contact DeakinTALENT immediately so the fraudulent ad can be removed and other candidates alerted

Where to get help

  • DUSA Legal can review a job offer or contract before you accept, as well as assist you with understanding your rights at work
  • IT Help at Deakin can help to verify any scam that mentions Deakin
  • Scamwatch can help you to identify common scams and report a scam online
  • IDCARE Australia provides free support to help you protect your personal information

Contact us

Got a question? Our friendly DeakinTALENT staff are here to help. Contact us at deakintalent@deakin.edu.au