What is Job Scamming?
Job scamming is a type of fraud where scammers create fake job listings and application processes to obtain your personal data and steal your identity. These fake job offers often look like legitimate postings and are distributed via digital platforms.
How Does Job Scamming Work?
Scammers copy or fake the websites of real companies and post fake job offers. You are then asked to apply for these positions. Often, a video identification process is used to "verify" your identity. In reality, however, scammers use your stolen data to open a bank account, which they later exploit for illegal activities.
What Data is of Interest to Scammers?
Scammers are particularly interested in sensitive personal data, such as copies of identification documents, addresses, phone numbers, and banking details. With this information, they can open accounts or commit other crimes.
How Can I Recognize a Job Scamming Offer?
Look out for the following signs:
- Verify the sender: Research whether the company actually exists and whether the job offer is authentic.
- Salary and qualifications: Be cautious of job offers promising unrealistically high salaries without requiring necessary qualifications.
- Requests for personal data: Be careful if you are asked to provide sensitive documents, such as identification papers, before signing an employment contract.
How Can I Protect Myself from Job Scamming?
- Carefully check job listings: Research the company and the job posting thoroughly. Make sure the contact details match those on the company’s official website.
- Be cautious with video identification processes: Do not provide personal data or open an account unless absolutely necessary.
- Report suspicious job offers: Contact the company through official channels to verify whether the job posting is real. You can also report fake job offers on XING: In the top right corner of every job listing, there is a button with three dots where you can select "Report job ad".
What Should I Do If I Become a Victim of Job Scamming?
- Stop sharing personal data: Do not send any more sensitive information to unknown individuals.
- Decline video identification processes: If asked to undergo a video identification procedure during the application process, refuse to do so.
- Freeze your bank account: If you have already opened an account, have it blocked as soon as possible and inform your bank.
- File a police report: If you have shared personal data, report the incident to the police.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Suspicious Job Offer?
- Research the sender of the email or job listing thoroughly.
- Ensure that the sender is genuinely associated with the company and that the job offer is real.
- Contact the company through official channels to confirm whether the position is actually available.
How Can I Ensure I Don’t Fall for Scams During a Job Application?
Only share your personal data after signing an employment contract. Any request for sensitive information before the contract is finalized—especially via email or messaging apps—is a red flag. Be particularly cautious of unusual requests, such as opening a bank account for the application process.
Job scamming is a serious threat, especially for job seekers. Stay alert, verify job offers carefully, and never share sensitive information with unknown or unverified senders. Protect yourself from fraud and report suspicious offers immediately to us and/or the authorities.