Connect with us

Telecom

How to Spot Social Media Job Scams a Mile Away

Published

on

Kindly share this post

With over 32% of South Africans struggling to find jobs, it is no wonder that scams targeting job seekers are becoming more common. “Cybercriminals are always evolving their tricks to match the latest trends,” asserts Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA. “As job-searches on social media grow, so does the potential for recruitment-related fraud.”

Types of recruitment scams

There are two types of recruitment scams, although they all have the same aim: conning you into giving them money or your personal details. The first kind involves impersonation, in which fraudsters pose as legitimate recruiters and reach out to you via WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, LinkedIn or email. “They may use stolen logos and profile pictures of very attractive people to lure you into thinking they’re from an HR department or recruitment firm,” explains Collard.

Recently, there have been scams where fraudsters posed as the Department of Employment and Labour to advertise fake job opportunities. In these incidents, individuals seeking jobs were required to pay R250 upfront for supposed “background checks” at PEP stores. Similarly, job seekers from the North-West province fell victim to a scheme where they paid for transportation to an interview and half-day training in Centurion, only to find out that the job offers were non-existent.

The second type of scam involves fake job postings. Using legitimate job boards, scammers post fake job offers to get your personal information. “Facebook, with its broad user base, is particularly desirable for scammers,” comments Collard. “They exploit the platform’s features, like Groups and Marketplace, to post fake job listings and approach potential victims.”

When you are hunting for a job, how can you stay safe? Here are three clear indicators that the job posting, or recruitment drive could be a scam.

  1. Unsolicited offers and unprofessional communication

“Beware of unsolicited job offers, especially if you didn’t apply for them,” advises Collard. Legitimate employers follow a formal recruitment process and will not haphazardly reach out on social media.

Another red flag is unprofessional communication. Spelling errors, poor grammar, an international phone number on WhatsApp, or an email address from Gmail or Yahoo should make you take a step back.

  1. Remote work that pays well

Another warning bell is that the job offer is “fully remote,” and offers very attractive remuneration. “Often this is a sign that it’s a scam,” cautions Collard, “as criminals know that most people want to work from home. Also, if the salary sounds astronomical for the particular position, be wary.” Rather, research what the salary range of similar positions is before you respond to tempting job offers. “It’s also better to verify the job offer is real by contacting the company directly,” she says.

  1. Requests for payment or your info

However, the most significant warning sign is when they ask for payment for application fees, training courses, or background checks. As per the Employment Services Act, no one can charge jobseekers for employment services. “If you are asked to pay anything for your recruitment, it is a clear scam,” Collard emphasises.

Similarly, legitimate employers will not ask for your sensitive personal information, such as your ID number or bank account details, until a very advanced stage of the recruitment process. “This information is usually only requested after a job offer has been extended,” explains Collard.

To ensure your safety during your job search, it is important to take precautions. Trust your instincts and be cautious. As Collard advises, “Pay attention to warning signs such as unsolicited job offers, requests to download links, and demands for payment or personal information.” By maintaining a healthy level of scepticism and taking proactive steps to verify the legitimacy of job offers and recruiters, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. And remember, anything that sounds or looks too good to be true, most likely isn’t.


Kindly share this post

Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

Telecom

Galaxy Backbone Bags Multiple ISO Certifications, Commits to Empowering Businesses to Thrive in the Digital Era

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Nigeria’s digital infrastructure solutions and services organization, Galaxy Backbone (GBB) has recently attained the global MSECB certifications in Management systems; the ISO 9001: 2015 standard – Quality Management Systems (QMS) and the ISO 22301:2019 standard – Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS).

These certifications re-affirm the organization’s commitment to delivering exceptional and excellent services that enhance the sustainability and reliability of solutions provided to organizations by GBB.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, organizations need trusted partners driven by its commitment to provide world class services, like GBB to navigate the complexities of modern times.

With these latest certifications, GBB has further positioned itself as a reputable organization, that public and private sector organizations can rely on in their digital transformation and business sustainability journey.

According to, Professor Ibrahim A. Adeyanju, GBB’s Managing Director/CEO ‘these certifications re-affirm the commitment we have consistently made to our customers.

In his words; ‘we are excited about these certifications, we have earned, coming at a time when customers, stakeholders and the government are searching for organizations like ours to rebuild the confidence in the system. I am proud of everyone at GBB who worked hard to ensure we attained this height and who continuously work tirelessly to provide excellent services daily’.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification, highlights Galaxy Backbone’s dedication to providing high-quality services that consistently meet and exceed customer expectations. It also underscores the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction across all aspects of its operations.

On the other hand, the ISO 22301:2019 certification showcases GBB as that organisation committed to institutionalizing business continuity management system processes to enhance business sustainability and resilience.

This certification demonstrates GBB’s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted business operations, even during unexpected disruptions like natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or other emergencies.

Galaxy Backbone is the digital Infrastructure platform at the forefront of providing cutting-edge Cloud, Colocation, Connectivity and Cybersecurity solutions and services to organisations. The company is dedicated to fostering reliable partnerships with key stakeholders and service providers in expanding fibre connectivity across cities and local communities.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

Twisco Awards N1m to Winners of Spelling Geniuses Competition

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Twisco, known for “nourishing big dreams”, has successfully sponsored the third edition of the Spelling Genius competition.

L-r: Eminence Chika Onwuatuogu, a judge; Aderibigbe Emmanuel, Spelling Genius Champion; Emeka Onyejiaka, and Catherine Onyejiaka, both judges, at the presentation of mock cheque and trophy to the Spelling Genius competition winner.

The competition held recently at the SUBEB Multipurpose Hall, Maryland, Lagos, brought together over 1500 students and instructors from primary and secondary schools (state and private).

The contestants vied to showcase their spelling skills at the competition aimed to enhance vocabulary and spelling skills for successful learning.

Twisco awarded a total of ₦750,000 in prizes to the top three winners: ₦150,000 for the third place winner, ₦250,000 for the second place winner, and a grand prize of ₦350,000 for the first place winner.

Speaking to journalists at the event, Lillian Omorenuwa, the Brand Manager, Beverage Category at Promasidor Nigeria, said they are not only helping the children develop spelling skills and reading comprehension, but also bolstering their confidence and communication skills as well.

“At the heart of Twisco is empowering young minds; one word at a time. Yes. We have been doing this because the children are dear to us and we stand for their well-being”, Lillian added.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

MTN Foundation’s Odunayo Sanya Urges Private Sector to Join Forces for Better Healthcare in Nigeria

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, has urged stakeholders in the healthcare industry to come together to address the skills gap and improve healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. Speaking at the CLI College graduation ceremony on May 25th, 2024, where she delivered the keynote speech, Sanya emphasised the need for collective action to bridge the skills gap in the healthcare industry.

“The private sector, including individuals and institutions, must collaborate to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We need to create an environment that fosters innovation, skills development and access to quality healthcare,” Sanya said.

She commended CLI College for its commitment to equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, saying, “I applaud CLI College for its dedication to addressing the critical need for qualified healthcare professionals in Nigeria. We need more institutions like this to accelerate progress in our healthcare sector.”

Sanya also highlighted the importance of strong institutions and policy consistency in driving economic development, saying, “Clear policies and good institution building are essential for growth and progress. We need to replicate this success in other sectors, including healthcare.”

Other stakeholders at the event also emphasised the need for collaboration and collective action to improve healthcare outcomes in Nigeria.

CLI Founder, Angela Chizea, Head of Health School, CLI College acknowledged the graduates’ dedication and emphasised the importance of education in shaping their futures. She also expressed gratitude to the college staff and supportive families who played a role in the graduates’ journeys.

“We acknowledge the critical role played by our college staff, whose tireless efforts and unwavering support have helped shape your journey. And to the families and loved ones who have supported our graduates every step of the way, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.” Mrs. Angela said.

MTN Foundation has invested in several critical intervention areas in Nigeria over the past 19 years, including national priorities like women empowerment, education and healthcare.

CLI College is a leading private career college in Nigeria offering diploma and certificate programs designed to prepare students for success in healthcare, business, technology and creative. Their focus on practical skills and flexible learning options empowers individuals to launch new careers or advance in their current fields.

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending