Employment scams are fraudulent schemes that exploit job seekers, often by posing as legitimate employers or recruiters. Scammers target individuals looking for work, preying on their hopes and vulnerabilities. These scams can vary widely, from fake job listings to phishing emails that ask for sensitive personal information. The common goal, however, is always the same: to steal money or personal data. With the rise of remote work and online job platforms, these scams have become increasingly sophisticated, making it harder for people to distinguish between a genuine opportunity and a scam.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the number of reported job scams has skyrocketed in recent years. In 2022 alone, Americans lost over $68 million to employment scams, with thousands of complaints filed. This statistic shows the importance of using caution when searching for jobs, as these scams can have devastating financial and emotional consequences. 

DOs and DON'Ts to Avoid Employment Scams:

• DO verify the employer’s legitimacy by researching the company’s official website, LinkedIn page, and online reviews. Be sure to perform your own independent search; don’t click on links provided in email communications which could be fraudulent phishing attempts.
• DO confirm the email address of any recruiter or hiring manager. Legitimate companies usually use corporate email addresses. Be cautious of any communication from free domains like Gmail or Yahoo.
• DO ask questions: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the role, the company, and the hiring process.
• DON’T share personal information (i.e. Social Security number, bank details, or other sensitive information) early in the hiring process.
• DON’T pay for a job. Legitimate employers won’t ask you to pay for training, equipment, or other job-related expenses upfront.
• DON’T ignore red flags such as vague job descriptions, unusually high salaries for little experience, or employers who push you to make quick decisions.

If you suspect your accounts have been compromised due to fraud, please contact Client Services immediately at 855.343.4070, Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. PT, and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. PT.

For more tools and tips, visit Pacific Premier Bank’s Cybersecurity Center.

The information expressed is being provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual or business. Pacific Premier Bank does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice, and the information contained herein should not be construed as such. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions. For specific guidance on how this information should be applied to your situation or business, you should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before applying any recommendation.

Pacific Premier Bank will not text, email, or call you asking for your online banking password or one-time security code. Make sure you verify the person who has contacted you before acting on any request.