Job Scam: Are you falling victim to fraud in the name of a job? Learn how to avoid being scammed...

Today's job market is more challenging than ever. New technologies and online platforms are making it easier to find work, but they've also introduced a new challenge: AI and digital scams. Recently, a fake profile of a recruiter was spotted on LinkedIn, posing as someone with a well-known company like KPMG. It was soon discovered that this wasn't a real job posting, but rather a fake posting created by an AI-generated deepfake account.

These aren't just minor annoyances; they're directly harming both job seekers and companies. Scammers have become incredibly smart, using AI and deepfake technology to create highly convincing fake profiles, impersonating real companies and recruiters, and attempting to trick people into giving up personal details or money.

Easy Ways to Spot Job Fraud
Unusual Communication: AI may write with perfect grammar, but if the language seems too generic or strange, be wary. Real recruiters will always speak in a personalized and professional tone.

Be suspicious if it seems too good to be true: If the job package is too high and the experience required is too low, or the process is moving too quickly, consider it too good to be true.

Suspicious profiles: Check the recruiter's profile. Are the job postings, connections, and company information accurate? A new or incomplete profile is always a sign of suspicion.

Demands for money or sensitive information: Companies never ask for application fees, training, or tools. They also never ask for bank details or Social Security numbers in the initial stages.

Job descriptions should be vague: Fake job postings are often very general and generic. A real job should have clear responsibilities and qualifications. In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), there are many new things to learn. If you want to keep up with the changing times, join NBT Upskill's AI Career Growth Workshop. Registrations for seat bookings have begun.

Ways to Stay Safe from AI-Generated Job Scams
Verify the Company: Always check the company's official website and career page.

Keep Accounts Secure: Change Passwords, Turn on Two-Factor Authentication.
Don't Send Money: Avoid paying for any training, tools, or onboarding fees.
Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn't feel right, stay away immediately.

Common Styles of AI Job Scams
AI and digital scams are rapidly increasing in the online job market. Job seekers must be wary of fake job postings, fake recruiters, and deceptive offers. Learn what the most common scams look like and easy ways to spot them:

1. Fake Companies and Jobs
Some scammers create completely fake companies and post job postings. These job postings look so real that candidates are easily ensnared. Fake websites, misleading logos, and realistic job descriptions are all part of this trick. Note: If the company's website, reviews, or online presence is suspicious, avoid that job.

2. Company/Job Board Imitation
Scammers pretend to be genuine brands or job boards. For example, the real company name may be companyname.com, but the fake site may be something like company-name.com. They attempt to steal your personal data and bank details through fake websites or emails. Always verify the job by visiting the company's official website.

3. Fake Interviews and Recruiters
Scammers often conduct fake interviews or pose as recruiters and make misleading job offers. They showcase professional profiles and interview processes to gain trust. However, real jobs are never offered in exchange for money or sensitive information. If the interview ends too quickly or they ask for money, it's a scam.

4. Pyramid and MLM Scams
Some scams lure you with promises of recruitment-based payments or income. They promise you earnings for referring new people. These offers often come with titles like "Make Money Quickly" or "Work From Home." Keep in mind, real jobs pay you for work, not for referring others.

5. Social Media and Messaging App Scams
Scammers are also active on platforms like LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook. They send tempting offers, such as high pay, full-time flexible hours, or jobs without experience. They often ask you to click on links or share personal details. Never click on links or provide personal information without verifying them.

What to do if you fall victim to a job scam?
Cease contact: Block the scammer immediately.
Secure accounts: Change passwords and turn on bank/security alerts.
Report the scam to the FTC or other platforms.
Monitor credit and finances: Look for unauthorized transactions.
Share your experience: Share your story to alert others and raise awareness.

Important advice
AI and digital scams are a new challenge for job seekers. With caution, research, and the right information, you can avoid these threats.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Navbharat Times. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.