If you’ve ever clicked on a too‑good‑to‑be job posting, you know the feeling – excitement turns into doubt when something feels off. Recruitment scams are on the rise, and they can cost you time, money, or even personal data. This guide shows you how to spot the red flags fast and what steps to take if you think you’re being targeted.
First up, look at the basics. Scammers often use vague titles like "Immediate hiring – work from home" without specifying duties. The salary range might be unusually high for entry‑level work. If the posting asks for payment to secure the job, that’s a huge warning sign. Legitimate companies never charge you to apply.
Another clue is poor grammar or spelling errors in the ad. Real HR teams usually proofread their listings. Also, check the email address – official domains end with the company’s name (e.g., @company.com). A Gmail or Yahoo address is a red flag.
When you get an interview invitation, verify it directly on the company's website. Most firms list open positions in their Careers section. If you can’t find the role there, call the company’s main line and ask if they’re hiring for that position.
You can also search the recruiter’s name on LinkedIn. Real recruiters have complete profiles with work history and connections. If the profile is brand new or missing details, proceed with caution.
Never share personal information like your ID number, bank details, or passport until you’ve signed a contract with a verified employer. Scammers love to collect data early to use later for identity theft.
If you suspect a scam, stop all communication immediately. Save screenshots of the messages and any emails. Report the fake posting to the job board where you found it – most sites have a “Report” button.
You should also alert your local consumer protection agency or police department. In South Africa, for example, you can file a complaint with the SAPS Cyber Crime unit. This helps authorities track down scammers and prevents others from falling victim.
Change any passwords you may have shared and monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity. If you’ve already sent money, contact your bank right away to see if they can block or reverse the transaction.
Set up a simple checklist before you apply: Is the salary realistic? Does the email come from an official domain? Can you find the job listing on the company’s own site? If any answer is no, walk away. Keeping this routine will save you headaches later.
Lastly, stay updated. Follow reputable career advice blogs or newsletters that regularly share scam alerts. The more you know, the easier it is to spot a fake offer before it costs you.
The Nigerian Air Force has warned the public to ignore fake messages claiming recruitment has begun for the 2025/2026 BMTC and DSSC. The force says no exercise is ongoing and genuine recruitment is free, merit-based, and announced only through official channels. No fees are charged and no third-party agents are used. Nigerians are urged to be cautious and verify information on official platforms.