Agape family,
With the COVID-19 pandemic, we are literally having to rely on using a lot of online apps for a variety of services. If you're an online shopper, then you may be used to navigating through these apps like a pro and that's awesome, but even a pro never stops learning and improving. So, this past week, we had someone create a fake job posting on Indeed using our company to potentially steal people's sensitive information from their resume & job submissions. We received over 250 submissions/calls/emails from potential candidates from the posting. A few people informed our agency that they didn't believe the posting was "real" or from us and after seeing the post, it certainly wasn't. Sadly, as the calls continued to come in, we had to let everyone know that it was a scam and to report the post. This was a terrible feeling for our staff because we know that this is a crucial time where people are really looking for employment and resources for themselves and their families. We at least wanted to provide some helpful tips to protective your sensitive info when applying for jobs online. If you shop online or via phone, stay tuned there are tips for you too.
Tips for protecting your information when applying for online jobs
1. If there are multiple grammar errors in the posting, it could certainly be a scam. Follow up with the company and check to see if all is legit.
2. If the salary is through the roof with little explanation, 9/10 it's a scam.
3. If it seems "too good too be true" or fishy, then it is. Go with your gut.
4. If the interviewer has you apply online and then texts you for more information, that's abnormal. Most employers follow up with a phone call or email. If it's not a scam in which it likely is, then it certainly could be a tad bit unprofessional.
5. If they have you pay a fee before they move forward with an interview. Many employers will interview you first and then decide whether they want to move forward with you. If they do, they will submit a background check (if necessary) which can cost if you are required to be finger- printed.
6. If the website is (.org), but the interviewer/contact information says (.com).
For my online shoppers or phone shoppers, a lot of the times you see an ad online or a post on Facebook of something, but you battle whether it is authentic. Well, the same tips apply to you as well.
1. If the merchandise is a random ad on social media, it could possibly be a scam. Check the comments for reviews. Go to the website, check for contact information.
2. If you see an ad and input your information and then someone calls you asking you to pay or get a pay-pal card and provide them with the number, it's a scam!
3. If you are having food delivered, make sure the company/app is real.
4. If someone is asking you for your social security number or any other sensitive information and it’s not like your bank or doctor or someone you would share that information with, then don't. Protect yourself and go with your gut, if it doesn't feel right.
5. If you order from amazon and the vendor is third party, then you should be extremely careful. Sometimes these vendors fake products or create post as if they are selling a product and then you never receive the item.
All and all we want you to be safe in all that you do. Everyone is not tech savvy and we understand that. We hope these tips are helpful and help to protect you and your family’s information.