MONTEREY COUNTY — In recent weeks, there has been a surge in fraudulent job postings targeting job seekers, announced Monterey County District Attorney’s Office.
These deceptive postings lead unsuspecting individuals to fake websites asking them to provide sensitive personal information, including direct deposit details. They will even go to the length of a fake Zoom interview over video conferencing apps like Microsoft Teams or Zoom.
“Once personal and banking information is obtained, this information is used to drain victims’ bank accounts, leaving them financially devastated,” stated the DA’s Office.
These scams typically operate by posing as legitimate employers offering attractive job opportunities with enticing benefits. However, applicants are directed to a counterfeit website that mimics a real company’s site after applying for the position. Here, they may be prompted to enter personal details, such as social security numbers, bank account information, blank checks for direct deposit and other private data, under the guise of completing their job application.
“Once this information is submitted, scammers exploit it to steal funds directly from victims’ bank accounts,” according to the DA’s Office. “The impact on individuals can be severe, leading to significant financial losses, identity theft and long-term financial hardship.”
How to Spot Fake Job Postings:
1. Research the Company: Research the company thoroughly before applying for any job. Legitimate companies will have a professional website and a presence on reputable job boards.
2. Verify Job Listings: Be cautious of job postings that promise high earnings for minimal work or require personal financial information upfront.
3. Check Website URLs: Verify the URL of any website where you are asked to enter personal information. Scammers often use URLs that are slightly different from legitimate company websites.
4. Be Wary of Immediate Offers: Exercise caution if you are offered a job without an interview or if the hiring process seems rushed and lacks transparency.
5. Protect Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information such as social security numbers, bank account details, or copies of identification documents unless you are certain of the legitimacy of the employer.
What to Do If You Suspect Fraud:
If you believe you have encountered a fraudulent job posting or website:
• Report It: Immediately report the incident to the job board or platform where you found the posting. This helps prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
• Notify Authorities: Contact your local law enforcement agency and also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity.
“You can protect yourself and others from falling victim to these malicious schemes by staying vigilant and informed,” stated the DA’s Office. “Please share this information with friends, family, and colleagues to raise awareness and prevent further financial harm.”
For more information on how to avoid job scams and protect personal information, visit fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety.
