Job hunting is hard enough without worrying about scams. But unfortunately, fake job offers are everywhere — especially online. If a job seems too good to be true, trust your gut. Here’s how to spot a scam before it spots you.
Signs a Job Might Be a Scam
1. You’re contacted about a job you never applied for.
Sure, recruiters might reach out on LinkedIn or Handshake — but they’ll usually ask you to apply, not jump straight into interviews.
2. The “interview” invite shows up within 24 hours — or outside normal hours.
Sketchy timestamps (middle of the night or weekends)? Big red flag. Real jobs move slower.
3. The email is from a Gmail or Yahoo address — not a company domain.
Look for legit domains like @companyname.com. Random Gmail addresses? Nope.
4. The message has typos, poor grammar, or just sounds off.
Professionals proofread. Scammers don’t.
5. They only contact you via text, WhatsApp, or email.
No video or phone interviews? That’s sus.
6. You’re asked to download their “custom” meeting app.
If it’s not Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams — don’t risk it. Malware alert
7. You’re offered the job without an interview (or after just one).
That’s not how real hiring works.
**8. You’re pressured to say yes — right now.
Real employers give you time to think.
9. They ask for money — for training, equipment, or anything else.
NEVER send money to an employer. Ever!!
10. They want your personal info before you’re officially hired.
SSN, bank info, birthdate — only share via official HR forms after accepting a real job.
11. The job description is super vague or generic.
No duties, no team, no clear role? Be cautious.
12. The pay seems way too high for an entry-level job or internship.
If it sounds too good to be true…
13. There’s no real office address — or it’s someone’s house.
Even remote companies have mailing addresses.
14. You’re told to “recruit others” after you’re hired.
Hello, pyramid scheme
15. Something just feels off.
Trust your instincts — they’re usually right.
How to Check if a Job Is Legit
!Google the company name + “scam” or “fraud”
!Look for real employee profiles on LinkedIn
!Verify the recruiter via the company’s official phone number
!Check for reviews on Glassdoor, Indeed, or the BBB
!Double check the website — does it look sketchy, generic, or brand new?
Think You’ve Been Scammed? Do This ASAP:
1. Report it:
- FTC Report
- IC3 (Internet Crime)
- Report on the platform (LinkedIn, Handshake, etc.)
2. If you gave banking info:
- Call your bank immediately
- Monitor accounts and ask about fraud alerts
3. If you gave your SSN:
- Contact a credit bureau to place a fraud alert
- Visit IdentityTheft.gov to start recovery
- Contact your DMV if you shared your driver’s license
4. If you sent or received money:
- Contact the payment service to dispute it
- Never cash checks from unknown employers — they’re usually fake
Pro Tip:
When in doubt, talk to someone you trust — or visit your campus career center (like us ). We’re here to help you find real opportunities that build your future — not steal from it.
Want personalized help?
Visit careers.augustana.edu
Book a session with a career coach
DM us or email us if something feels off
