Watchdog alert as cyber fraudsters target Yorkshire job seekers

West Yorkshire Trading Standards officers have received reports in recent weeks of online criminals trying to trick job seekers into handing over cash when they apply to adverts which have been revealed to be fake.

Scam companies are using legitimate employment websites to target people seeking work. Labouring jobs and short-term contracts have featured in the attempted frauds which have been reported across the Kirklees area of Huddersfield and Dewsbury.

A spokeswoman for Trading Standards explained the scam: “After displaying an interest in a role, job seekers were promptly offered a job, without an interview and were soon being asked to send cash through the post to ensure the role was secured.

“In addition to this, the candidates in question were then pressurised to send proof of identity via e-mail, such as passport, ID Card, address details and National Insurance number.

“Luckily, in the cases identified, the candidates were suspicious and raised their concerns with their employment advisors and on researching the company name used, it became apparent that large company profiles had been cloned by scammers to be able to gain this information from those searching for employment. Although no money or specific identity details were sent, several candidates had sent CVs which often contain a great deal of information including address, date of birth and full name, which can ultimately lead to identity theft in the wrong hands and is a huge concern for those involved.”

Trading Standards officers are advising people not to give out any information about themselves on receipt of an email alone and to not be tempted by the offer of a job without a phone call or interview taking place.

“Although it is appreciated that people are trying their best to get back into work, it is highly unlikely that any job would be offered by email alone and no one should have to part with cash to be able to commence employment.”

Coun Bill Urry, of the West Yorkshire Trading Standards Committee, said: “All scammers are opportunists and they use all sorts of avenues to prey on the most vulnerable people in society. This is a prime example of how scammers target all ages and backgrounds, using high unemployment concerns to target those desperate to find work.”

To report scams call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 040506.

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