2019-2020 Purdue University Career Success Handbook

Fraudulent Jobs and Scam Postings

A lthough extremely uncommon, fraudulent postings and scams can occasionally surface online . Follow the tips below to ensure you apply only to legitimate opportunities.

Red Flags—BeWarned • You are asked to send money, provide credit card/bank account numbers, cash or deposit checks, or wire transfer money as part of the application process. • You are asked for your social security number or other personal documentation when responding to a job posting. • The position description indicates you will be “working from home” or “virtually.” These opportunities require additional scrutiny. • The email address in which you are asked to send your resume is not a corporate address (Gmail, Yahoo, etc .) . Keep in mind, however, that there are times when legitimate start-up businesses use non- corporate email addresses. • The job listing uses incorrect spelling or very poor grammar.

Protect Yourself • Do not send money, provide account numbers, cash checks received or provide your social security number to any entity during the application process. • Do research to check on a company’s legitimacy, using sites such as: the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org , Snopes at www.snopes.com or Hoovers at www.hoovers.com .

If You Suspect a Scam • If you believe you have encountered a suspicious posting on myCCO, Purdue’s online job board, contact the CCO for assistance at 765-494-3981 or email us at askcco@purdue.edu. • If the incident occurred on another web-based platform, file a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov. • In the event that money has already been sent to a fraudulent employer or you cashed a check from a fraudulent source, contact your financial institution immediately.

THE JOB SEARCH

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