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At first glance, the job offers looked legitimate, openings at major companies, “remote work” possibilities, and HR emails that seemed real. But behind the scenes were scammers using sophisticated tricks to steal money or personal information.
Across Europe and beyond, fraudsters are posting jobs on trusted platforms like LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter, using fake recruiter profiles, impersonating real hiring managers, sending spoofed emails and sometimes holding “interviews” over Zoom just to appear believable.
“These fakes look so real and so legitimate, it’s almost impossible for job-seekers to tell the difference,” said Eva Velasquez of the Identity Theft Resource Center.
How the scam works
The victim applies to what seems like a real job listing or gets an unsolicited message from a “recruiter.”
They’re asked to provide personal details (bank details, ID number) or to purchase equipment/training “to get started immediately.”
A fake check may appear in the account, then the fraudster asks the victim to send on part of it or wire money to cover “equipment” or “software.” Later the check bounces, and the victim is out the money.
Often the “job” never existed, and the victim may also unwittingly give away data used for identity theft.
One well-documented example: A woman, looking for work via LinkedIn, applied for what appeared to be a transcription role. She received a fake check for US $4,300, was told to buy equipment, wired the money, only to later find out the check was bogus. Her bank took back the funds, and she lost the money out of her pocket.
Why now?
Scammers are getting more advanced, taking advantage of tight job markets, people looking for remote work, and trusting platforms. According to recent data, online job-related scams jumped 19% year-on-year in the U.S., with victims losing hundreds of millions of dollars.
What this means for Cyprus
Though most reports so far come from abroad, the risk is very real for Cyprus too. With more Cypriot job-seekers using international platforms and seeking remote work, the same types of scams could easily target the island.
Police and cybersecurity experts advise:
- Always verify the company and recruiter’s email domain.
- Never pay for a job, or provide bank/ID details at the early stage.
- Be especially cautious if you’re asked to buy equipment or transfer money upfront.
Bottom line: If something about the job offer sounds too good to be true, it very likely is, even here in Cyprus.
*With information from NBC News, Business Insider, Axios
