IT Security Alert: Job Scams Targeting Seton Hall Students

In today’s competitive job market, students and recent graduates are eager to find opportunities, making them prime targets for job scams. Recently, fraudulent emails offering fake job opportunities have been sent to members of the Seton Hall University community. These emails often appear legitimate but are designed to steal personal and financial information. The Department of Information Technology warns of an increase in such scams and provides tips to help you avoid falling victim. 

Warning Signs of Fake Job Postings

• Suspicious Subject Lines: Phishing emails often use generic or vague subject lines, like "Jobs Opportunity" or "Staff and Student Jobs Available." These subjects may sound legitimate, but their lack of specifics can be warning signs. 

• Mismatched Formatting and Grammar Errors: Poor grammar, spelling errors, and inconsistent fonts or colors are common in phishing emails. Legitimate employers use clear and professional communication.

• Requests to Apply Directly via Email or Unknown Links: Be cautious if asked to apply by replying to an email or clicking on unfamiliar links. Legitimate employers generally require applications through official company websites or reputable job portals. If in doubt, report the email to IT Security by clicking the Report Phishing button on your Outlook toolbar. 

• Unrealistic Salary Offers: Offers of very high salaries with minimal qualifications or experience are often scams. While competitive pay exists, entry-level roles with suspiciously high pay should raise red flags. 

• Lack of Company Information: A legitimate employer includes company details, such as a website, office address, and company-specific email domain. Beware of emails from free accounts (Gmail, Yahoo) or domains that mimic real ones, such as @companny.com instead of @company.com.

• Requests for Personal Information Upfront: Avoid sharing personal information (e.g., Social Security number, bank details) early in the process. Only provide sensitive details after confirming the employer's legitimacy and receiving a formal job offer.

• Immediate Start Dates: Many scams offer quick or same-day starts to avoid background checks and verification. Legitimate roles often have a set onboarding schedule and clear start dates.

• Redirection to External Payment Services: Be cautious if an employer asks you to set up accounts on platforms like PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App, especially if they request financial transactions. Legitimate companies handle payments through established payroll systems, not personal payment apps.

Common Job Scams

• Work-from-Home Job Scams: Scammers often advertise easy, high-paying work-from-home roles that require purchasing "starter kits" or training. Real employers will not charge you for job-related materials.

• Posing as Another Student, Faculty Member or University Employee: At first glance, the sender's address appears legitimate, often mimicking the format of a faculty or staff email address, such as first.last.shu.edu@gmail.com. It is important to note that this scam is not restricted to Seton Hall; recipients may also be contacted by spoofed accounts from other universities.

• Mystery Shopper Scams: Fake mystery shopper roles target job seekers by sending checks and asking for purchases with refunds. When the check bounces, victims are held liable. Legitimate companies do not require check deposits, transfers, or payments for certifications.

As job scams become more prevalent and sophisticated, staying vigilant is your strongest line of defense. Research every employer and job posting carefully, ensuring their legitimacy through official channels like company websites or trusted job boards. If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek guidance from Seton Hall’s Career Center, which offers valuable resources on active job scams and support.

Remember, when in doubt, close it out—avoid engaging with suspicious emails and report them using the Report Phishing button to help protect yourself and the Seton Hall community. For additional tips, check out our printable infographic on spotting phishing emails and visit this guide on Phishing Scams to stay informed.

Categories: Science and Technology