We’ve all seen them.
That job ad that looks too good to be true — high pay, work from home, no experience needed. It feels like the perfect opportunity.
Here’s the reality:
Many of those ads are scams designed to steal your personal info, your money, or even trick you into doing the hacker’s dirty work.
Why Fake Job Ads Work
• They prey on people’s hopes when they’re looking for work.
• Scammers make them look professional with stolen logos and convincing wording.
• They often ask for personal details early — CVs, addresses, phone numbers — all of which can be abused.
• Some even demand “training fees” or equipment deposits, which you’ll never see again.
Real Example
In 2021, UK job seekers reported fake postings on well-known job boards. The scammers copied real company names and branding, but the applications were routed through personal email accounts. Victims handed over CVs packed with personal data — gold dust for identity theft.
Do This Today
- Check the source
Apply through official company websites, not random links in ads. - Look for red flags
Poor grammar, vague descriptions, or unrealistically high pay are warning signs. - Don’t pay to apply
Legit employers never ask for upfront fees for training or equipment. - Verify contacts
If you get an email, check that it’s from an official company domain, not Gmail or Outlook. - Protect your CV
Remove unnecessary details like full address or date of birth before sending.
Key Takeaway
Not every job ad is genuine. Scammers use them as bait to collect your details or your cash. A few checks up front can save you a world of pain later.
At The Cyber Workshop, our Awareness Workshops teach you how to spot scams like fake job ads, phishing attempts, and other tricks hackers rely on. With clear, practical steps, you’ll be safer every time you go online.
Till next time,
If a job looks too good to be true, it probably is.
