Jobs and employment scams
Online employment scams use fake job ads or impersonate actual companies to offer high-paying, low-effort jobs. They aim to steal your money and personal information, often by charging an upfront 'recruitment fee' to start a role that doesn't exist, benefiting only the scammer.
Protecting yourself against employment scams
While they can be hard to identify, there are several things you can do to reduce the likelihood of falling victim to a job or employment scam:
- Be suspicious of unsolicited 'work from home opportunities or job offers, particularly those that offer a 'guaranteed income' or require you to pay an upfront fee.
- If the job involves making or selling a certain type of product or service, find out if there is really a market for it.
- Ask for references from other people who have done the work or used the product and make the effort to speak to these people.
- Do not deal with an employer or company that does not have a street address, they can be difficult to contact or trace later on.
- Avoid any arrangement with a stranger that asks for up-front payment via money order, wire transfer, international funds transfer, pre-loaded card or electronic currency. It is rare to recover money sent this way.
- Never agree to transfer money for someone else.
Reality TV crew and casting
Scammers are also targeting Australians seeking roles on popular reality and renovation shows. Scammers create fake profiles, websites, and popups that look like legitimate networks and talent companies. They aim to steal personal information and may ask for upfront payments to submit an application or secure an audition.
To report a scam or get further information on this type of scam, visit Scamwatch.