How to Spot a Scam Interview Invitation and Protect Your Job Search

Many job seekers have fallen victim to fake scam companies that lure them in with enticing interview invitations, only to introduce them to fraudulent schemes like fake drug marketing businesses. Not only do these scams waste people’s time and energy, but they often extort money from unsuspecting job seekers, adding financial distress to their job search woes.

Imagine a recent graduate, unemployed for years, being extorted for ₦10,500 – money that could have been spent on basic necessities. Add to that the transportation costs wasted on attending these fruitless interviews or “job chats,” as scammers like to call them. Some desperate individuals even resort to borrowing money to pay these wolves in sheep’s clothing, who promise lucrative earnings within a month. If you’re not cautious, you might end up with a loan you can’t repay, causing embarrassment and added stress when all you should be worried about is finding a job.

However, with proper guidance, you can steer clear of these scammers and safeguard your time and money. In this article, we’ll explore ways to identify fake or scam interview invitations, as these scams often follow a predictable pattern.

1. Lack of Company Name: Legitimate companies want potential employees to know who they are. Beware of invitations that don’t include a company name, as this is a red flag.

2. Mysterious “Job Briefing”: If the message mentions a “job briefing” without clear details, be cautious. Legitimate companies typically provide comprehensive information about the interview purpose.

3. Codes or References: Look out for codes like “HR=0056” or “REF=002.” These codes often indicate a lack of transparency and a hidden agenda.

4. Phone Numbers from Referrers: Genuine companies usually don’t provide phone numbers of referrers in interview invitations. This practice is common among scammers.

5. HR Admin Instead of Company Name: If you see “HR Admin” instead of the company name in the message, it’s likely a scam.

6. Reluctance to Share Company Information: When you call the provided phone number, scammers often hesitate to share detailed information about the company. This is a clear warning sign.

Additionally, be cautious of job flyers on the streets and posters on walls, as these are often tools used by scammers and even potential ritualists. Many so-called job agencies also operate as fronts for duping unsuspecting job seekers.

If you’ve had experiences with these scammers, please share your stories here to help others learn and avoid falling into the same traps. Together, we can protect job seekers from these fraudulent schemes. Thank you for contributing to the community’s safety.