Scam Warning: Fake Job Adverts Targeting Students
As students settle into the new academic year, Northamptonshire Police are warning that young adults can be a prime target for online fraud and cyber crime. From fake job offers to made-up rental listings, scammers are finding new ways to steal personal information and money.
Fraudsters may use convincing adverts or messages that appear to come from legitimate companies. Common scams include requests for upfront payments for fake consultations, job placements, or student housing that doesn’t exist.
Watch ouf for these red flags:
Job adverts offering unusually high pay for little work.
Employers or agencies asking for money in advance.
Property listings that can’t be viewed in person or look “too good to be true.”
Requests for payment by bank transfer instead of card.
Messages or emails from unknown senders asking for personal or financial details.
While young people are often the most tech-savvy among us, even they can sometimes be caught out by online scams. Fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated and aggressive tactics to trick people into sharing personal details or money. Follow the tips below to help keep yourself and your family safe when job-hunting, house-hunting, or simply browsing online.
Stay safe online:
Use trusted job and housing websites and research any company or landlord before sharing details.
Protect your accounts with strong passwords and two-step verification.
Never feel pressured to make fast payments.
Report suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk or scam texts/calls to 7726 (free).
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