When searching for jobs, it's important to protect yourself from potential job posting scams.
A growing scam trend targets students and new grads seeking employment, both on public job boards and university employment portals.
Though WaterlooWorks job postings are carefully reviewed by Co-operative and Experiential Education in an effort to verify their legitimacy, we can't always catch fraudulent information. Sometimes scammers will post jobs with real company names, websites and information, but use fraudulent email addresses to correspond with students (among other tactics). The same is true of public job boards, where postings are often less closely monitored.
No matter where you find a job posting, it’s important to use caution and sound judgement when responding to job postings, attending interviews and accepting offers from employers.
To help you and your information stay safe, we've compiled some tips and information. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your Co-op Advisor.
How job scams work
Job scams often follow recognizable patterns designed to steal money or personal information. Understanding how these scams work can help you recognize them earlier and avoid serious consequences. Here are some of the most common tactics and what they can lead to:
Requests for payment
The “employer” asks you to send money for things like training, equipment or background checks via wire transfer, money order or e-transfer. Once sent, the money is gone and cannot be recovered.
Fake cheque or payment schemes
You’re asked to deposit a cheque and send some of the money back. The cheque later bounces, and you’re responsible for repaying the full amount.
Requests for personal information
You’re asked to share sensitive details (e.g., SIN, banking information). This information is then used for identity theft or fraud.
Dealing with a job scam
If something about a job posting or employer doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and take a closer look. Acting early can help you protect your personal information and avoid potential harm.
If you suspect a scam:
- Do a web search with the company name and the word "scam" to see if someone has reported an issue in the past.
- Ask questions and use your common sense if the answer seems suspicious.
- Speak to your Co-op Advisor and tell them about your suspicions.
If you've been scammed:
- Check your bank account for fraudulent activity. If you notice any transactions that you didn't initiate, contact your bank and/or credit card company immediately. Make sure you keep an eye on your bank account for the next few weeks.
- File a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Report the incident to your Co-op Advisor.
Tips to avoid job posting scams
Watch out for:
- Companies that aren't willing to provide information about their organization or the job itself.
- Companies that refuse to interview you either in-person, over the phone or virtually.
- Companies asking for access to personal information during the interview stage (e.g., your Social Insurance Number, banking or credit information, student card, driver's license or passport). Legitimate companies won't request this type of personal information until you've been officially hired.
- Companies that ask you to make an initial investment up front. You shouldn't have to pay a company in order to apply for a job.
- Companies that send you money up front and ask you to cash cheques/wire money back to them.
- Opportunities that seem too good to be true (which means they probably are).
Research the company in advance:
- Visit the company website, read reviews and search social media.
- Confirm the company has a legitimate online presence and location.
- Ensure contact details match official sources.
- Look for real employees (including the hiring manager) on the company’s LinkedIn.
- Watch for vague or inconsistent information.
Before accepting a job offer:
- You should have an interview (in-person, over the phone or virtually) to assess the legitimacy of the company and position.
- You should receive a verbal and written offer from the employer, which typically includes a contract with the terms of your employment specified.
Need support?
Always contact your Co-op Advisor to report a suspicious job posting and/or if you were scammed. The University can then take appropriate action to ensure that other students aren't scammed by the same employer.