Job market slowdown triggers resurgence of fraudulent text messages offering questionable employment opportunities
In the current economic climate, where unemployment levels are at their highest since October 2021 and the U.S. recorded a monthly net job loss in June, job seekers must be vigilant against scams. One such scam, gaining traction recently, involves job offers and quick cash promises sent via text messages, posing as legitimate job services like LinkedIn.
These texts are, in fact, scams. Recipients are advised not to respond, click any links, or call or message any phone numbers included in the text. LinkedIn has made it clear that they will not contact job seekers in this manner, and all potential employers should be communicating through LinkedIn, unless the job seeker has given them their phone number.
Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, ask for personal credentials, or ask recipients to communicate via non-LinkedIn channels. To detect and report these text scams, users should look out for inconsistencies or suspicious elements in job postings. This includes unrealistic job offers, requests for personal information upfront, or communication outside the official LinkedIn platform.
LinkedIn provides an FAQ for people with questions about LinkedIn text scams. However, it's important to note that similar scams may exist under different guises. Scammers may also ask recipients to contact them via WhatsApp or Telegram, platforms that are harder to trace.
A recent Reuters Ipsos poll revealed that 71 percent of respondents are worried about job losses due to AI. Amidst these concerns, it's crucial for job seekers to remain cautious and protect themselves from potential scams.
Searches related to this scam have increased significantly, with a spike starting around May 11 and continuing to the present date. Job seekers are encouraged to report any suspicious activity through LinkedIn's official channels for review and removal.
Stay safe, and remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
