You receive an email from a job recruiter from a notable organisation. They inform you that you have been shortlisted for a position within the company, which offers a good salary.
However, before proceeding, you must deposit a refundable security deposit to confirm your attendance on the interview day. Sounds reasonable, right?
Unfortunately, it’s another job scam with fraudsters masquerading as HR representatives and demanding money up front to secure an interview slot.
The final step in their plan is the disappearing act once they’ve received your money.
Let’s examine how fake recruitment scams work, how to spot one, and, most importantly, how to protect yourself.
Modus Operandi
The Initial Offer: Scammers send an email claiming that you have been selected for an interview at a renowned company on the basis of your resume. The email also contains a link to a fake document with the company’s logo, interview venue, a stamped image of an HR executive, their phone number, and signature.
Interview Requirements: The document lists school and college certificates and job experience letters that candidates must bring on the interview day. It further states that air tickets and accommodation will be provided to candidates from other cities.
Security Deposit: The document mentions that all candidates must deposit a refundable security fee through NEFT, Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), or Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) to ensure the candidate attends the interview. It further states that the amount will be refunded after the interview without any deductions.
The Vanishing Act: After you transfer the amount to the scammers' account, they will sever all communication and even block you.
Red Flags
Any job recruiter who emails you with an offer for a role you never applied for should be viewed with suspicion.
Considering you for a position without even knowing your skills and work experience.
Demand a security fee before scheduling an interview or confirming your slot.
What To Do
Verify: If you have not applied for a position at a company, you can contact them directly using the details on their official website to confirm the offer's legitimacy.
Ignore: No employers request payments to secure interview slots or ask for money at any stage of the hiring process, so do not transfer any amount to any account.
Apply: Only use trusted job boards or official company websites to apply for positions you are interested in.
Report: If you were duped or were able to spot this scam, then report the incident as soon as possible through a government portal such as Chakshu (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/) and the national cybercrime helpline number—1930. You can also lodge a complaint with the local police station.
(The Quint's Scamguard initiative aims to keep up with emerging digital scams to help you stay informed and vigilant. If you've been scammed or successfully thwarted one, then tell us your story. Contact us via WhatsApp at +919999008335 or email us at myreport@thequint.com. You can also fill out the Google form and help us take your story forward.)
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