Beware of Payment Requirements
One of the clearest signs of a job scam is when advertisements or interviews require payment. In South Africa, it is illegal for any agency or employer to charge a job seeker to apply for or secure a position. If someone asks you to bring cash to a fake address, be cautious. Legitimate recruiters will never ask you to pay to apply or register with their company.

Research Email Addresses
Scammers often use free webmail accounts like Yahoo or Gmail. While some legitimate companies use Gmail, it’s essential to research the email address. Look for a professional email associated with the company’s domain name.

Investigate the Company
When you find a job post of interest, research the company advertising it. Check if they have a legitimate website, a contact number, and a physical address. When you call the provided number, note who answers and what they say. Compare the email address and phone number in the advert to those on the company’s website. Ensure the company is legally registered with CIPC.

Be Wary of Work-from-Home Jobs
Work-from-home job offers can often be a scam. Be cautious of ads claiming “fast-growing company seeks individuals to work from home, earn up to R5000 per week part-time.” These often turn out to be pyramid schemes, requiring you to pay to sign up and recruit others.

Scrutinise Fax Number Only Ads
If an advertisement only provides a fax number, be wary. Modern companies rarely use fax for applications. Contact the advertiser and ask for an email address. Often, the provided number might not exist. Ensure fax is not the only communication method. Most recruiters prefer email for receiving CVs and use fax only as a last resort.

Look for Poorly Written Adverts
Adverts with spelling and grammar mistakes, or those stating no experience is required, can be red flags. Legitimate job postings are usually well-written and detailed.

Verify Social Media Job Ads
Social media job adverts claiming reputable companies offer high salaries can often be fake. Research and verify that the organization has indeed placed the advertisement.

Understand the Interview Process
Legitimate companies typically conduct thorough interviews. If an interview is too quick, lacks structure, or happens solely through messaging apps without a formal in-person or video interview, it may be a scam. Be wary of employers who offer you a job without a proper interview process.

Check for Contact Information
A legitimate job posting will usually provide clear contact information, including the company’s address, phone number, and email. If these details are missing or seem suspicious, it’s worth investigating further.

Analyse the Job Description
Scammers often use vague job descriptions that lack specific details about the role and responsibilities. A legitimate job posting will provide a clear and detailed job description, including qualifications and expectations.

Be Wary of Instant Job Offers
If you receive a job offer almost immediately after applying, without a formal interview or vetting process, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate employers take time to review applications and conduct interviews.

Protect Yourself from Job Scams
These tips are just a few ways to spot a job scam. Always conduct thorough research to protect your personal interests, including your money and identity. Human trafficking is a real threat, so be cautious about who and where you submit your personal details. Stay safe, stay aware, and always research to avoid becoming a victim of job scams.

Report Job Scams
If you encounter a job scam, report it to the relevant authorities. In South Africa, you can contact the South African Police Service (SAPS) or the Department of Employment and Labour. Reporting scams can help prevent others from becoming victims.

Use Trusted Portals
To minimize the risk of encountering scams, use trusted job portals and websites. Look for platforms that verify job postings and have a good reputation among job seekers. Some trusted job portals include LinkedIn, Indeed, Careers24 and Pnet.

Educate Yourself and Others
Stay informed about the latest job scam tactics and educate your friends and family. Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing job scams. Share your knowledge and experiences to help others avoid falling victim to scams.

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