Fake Job Offer Scam Analysis

Job Posting Details

Platform: LinkedIn (spoofed company page) Position: Remote Data Analyst Salary: $85,000/year (suspiciously high for entry-level) Company: "TechGlobal Solutions" (real company name spoofed)

Recruitment Process

Initial Contact

• Email from hr@techglobal-solutions-careers.com
• Professional-looking job description
• Quick "interview" via WhatsApp text chat only
• Immediate "job offer" without proper screening

Red Flags in Process

1. Interview conducted entirely via text
2. No video call with hiring manager
3. Asked for documents before contract signing
4. Urgency: "Need to fill position immediately"

Information Requested

1. Scanned driver's license "for HR records"
2. Social Security Number "for background check"
3. Bank account details "for direct deposit setup"
4. Signed "employment agreement" with unusual terms

Scam Analysis

Likely Goals

1. Identity theft using personal documents
2. Bank account compromise
3. Use of identity for further scams
4. Resale of personal information on dark web

Technical Investigation

• Domain registered 2 weeks ago
• Email headers show routing through proxy
• LinkedIn company page created 3 days before posting
• 8 other victims identified through similar reports

Protective Actions

1. Immediate:
   • Did not provide any documents
   • Reported to LinkedIn
   • Forwarded emails to company's real HR department
2. Follow-up:
   • Placed fraud alert on credit reports
   • Monitored bank accounts for suspicious activity
   • Reported to FTC

Impact Assessment

Personal Risk: High (if documents were shared) Financial Risk: Medium (bank details could be misused) Reputation Risk: Low (no damage done)

Recommendations for Job Seekers

1. Verify company email domains match official websites
2. Insist on video interviews
3. Never share SSN or bank details before formal hiring
4. Research company thoroughly using multiple sources