Job scams surged 118% in 2023, aided by AI. Here’s how to stop them
Job scams have surged by a staggering 118% in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center. This alarming trend is attributed to the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) by scammers to deceive job seekers. Criminals are exploiting AI technologies to create convincing job listings and recruitment messages, making it difficult for individuals to distinguish genuine opportunities from fraudulent schemes.
These scams typically involve posing as recruiters, enticing applicants with fake job postings, and then illicitly obtaining sensitive personal and financial details under the guise of an ‘interview’ process. The fraudulent activities often occur on reputable online platforms, further complicating the task of identifying legitimate job opportunities.
Victims of such scams typically face financial losses averaging around $2,000. The peril lies in unwittingly disclosing sensitive information like financial account details or Social Security numbers, which fraudsters can misuse to perpetrate identity theft. In 2022, consumers lost a staggering $367 million to job and business opportunity scams, representing a 76% increase from the previous year.
The transition to remote work, particularly accelerated during the pandemic, has normalized digital interactions in the job market. However, the absence of physical contact during recruitment processes raises red flags. Legitimate hiring processes typically involve more personal interaction and scrutiny than what scammers offer.
To safeguard against falling victim to job scams, individuals are advised to exercise caution and diligence. It is crucial to verify the legitimacy of companies and job offers independently, avoiding premature disclosure of personal information. Employers typically request minimal personal details during the initial application stage, and any requests for extensive information or upfront payments should raise suspicion.
Experts recommend conducting thorough research, avoiding unsolicited job offers, and being vigilant of unrealistic promises or requests that deviate from standard hiring practices. Staying informed and cautious is pivotal in protecting oneself from the growing threat of job scams in today’s digital landscape.
source:https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/07/job-scams-surged-118percent-in-2023-aided-by-ai-heres-how-to-stop-them.html
