Fake job offers target people who urgently need work. They often look professional, use real company names and move fast. A few checks before you pay, share documents or travel can protect you.
Warning signs
- You are asked to pay — a registration, training, uniform, laptop or “security deposit” fee. Genuine employers do not charge you to apply, interview or join.
- An offer arrives without a real interview, or after a very short chat.
- Contact happens only through personal numbers, personal email addresses or chat apps.
- Pay is far above what similar roles offer, with no clear explanation.
- You are pressured to decide or pay today.
- “Work from home” tasks where you must pay first to unlock earnings.
Checks before you share anything
Find the company's official website yourself, not through a link in the message. Check that emails come from the company's own domain. Call a number listed on the official website to confirm the vacancy. Share identity documents only after you have verified the employer, and only through its official HR process. Never share an OTP or bank PIN with anyone.
A fictional warning example
Three warning signs at once: selection without an interview, a fee, and time pressure. A genuine employer would not send this.
If you have already paid or shared details
Stop all payments and contact. If money was taken, inform your bank immediately and report it on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or call 1930. Keep screenshots of messages and payment records.
How CareerSync lists jobs
On CareerSync, recruiters can post only after their company account is approved, and each job is reviewed before it is listed. Still apply the same checks to any offer you receive, on any platform.
Common questions
Is a refundable fee acceptable?
No. A fee described as refundable is still a request for money before you have a job.
Can a real recruiter contact me on WhatsApp?
Some do. Verify the company and the vacancy through official channels before sharing documents or money.
Key Takeaways
- You are asked to pay — a registration, training, uniform, laptop or “security deposit” fee. Genuine employers do not charge you to apply, interview or join.
- An offer arrives without a real interview, or after a very short chat.
- Contact happens only through personal numbers, personal email addresses or chat apps.
- Pay is far above what similar roles offer, with no clear explanation.
- You are pressured to decide or pay today.
- “Work from home” tasks where you must pay first to unlock earnings.
CareerSync next steps
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