How to spot a scam

/ Working Life Tips / By

We’ve spotted some trends in the recruitment industry of scammers targeting people – especially on WhatsApp and posing as well-known organisations. We want to make sure our users are safe from scammers!

Keeping an eye out for Scammers

Spotting a scam is crucial to protect yourself from financial loss and potential harm. Scammers use various tactics to deceive individuals. Here are 5 tips on how to spot a scammer:

  1. Impersonation: Scammers often impersonate trusted businesses or individuals. Verify the identity of the person or organisation by contacting them directly using contact information you find independently (not provided by the suspicious message).
  2. Too Good to Be True: If an offer or opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often promise unrealistic returns, prizes, or benefits to lure victims.
  3. Request for Personal or Financial Information: Be wary of requests for personal information like your bank account details, or passwords. Legitimate organisations typically don’t ask for such sensitive information via email or phone.
  4. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts, and take a step back. Scammers often rely on people’s emotions and urgency to make hasty decisions.
  5. Beware of Phishing: Be careful with email links and attachments. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking. Don’t download attachments from unknown sources.
Been Scammed?

If you think you’re being scammed, you should:

  1. Stop Communication: Stop all communication with the suspected scammer. Do not respond to emails, messages, or phone calls from them.
  2.  Record Details: Document all information related to the scam. This includes the scammer’s contact details, any messages or emails, and any other relevant information. This documentation may be useful when reporting the scam.
  3. Report to Authorities: You can report a scam text message by forwarding it to 7726 which spells out SPAM on a keypad. If it’s a spam email forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk
  4. Trading Standard Scotland: Report all scams to Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000.
  5. Further Advice: WhatsApp has lots of advice on how to protect yourself from scams on its website.
  6.  Change Passwords: If you’ve shared passwords or suspect your accounts have been compromised, change your passwords for email, banking, and other sensitive accounts.
  7. Be Aware: Even after reporting the scam, stay vigilant for potential follow-up scams or phishing attempts. Scammers may try to target you again.

Just an FYI, we have not been contacting anyone via WhatsApp! We will never request payment to upgrade an s1jobs account or take payment to increase the chances of application success. Stay safe from scammers and good luck in your job search.