Job Scams on the Rise

Background

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has over the past few weeks received several reports indicating an increase in job scams using a new approach/tactic. At least fifteen (15) reports have been received through the cybercrime/cybersecurity incident reporting points of contact with victims losing over GH₵ 124,000.

Modus Operandi

  • Unsolicited messages are randomly sent to the public via SMS, emails, and messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram.
  • The scammers pose as recruiters and advertise remote/part-time high-paying job roles that require performing digital tasks such as liking social media posts and giving referrals to friends
  • Interested individuals are directed to interact with the recruiters on WhatsApp or Telegram via a link embedded in the unsolicited message.
  • The recruiters engage victims to sign up on their portal for available positions and to manage their assigned tasks and supposed earnings.
  • At the onset, victims are paid relatively low sums (usually less than GH₵ 200) for completing the assigned tasks.
  • The victims are subsequently requested to make cash deposits to be assigned more lucrative tasks and to release all the earnings they have made from completing the previous tasks.
  • Once substantial deposits are made, the victims are eventually locked out of their accounts and prevented from contacting the scammers, without receiving the promised large payouts.

Recommendation

  • Be cautious of unsolicited messages offering job opportunities.
  • Be skeptical of high-paying jobs that require minimal work. If it seems too good to be true, it is likely a scam.
  • Be wary of poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or unprofessional communication in job advertisements.
  • Always verify job advertisements directly with the company's official website or contact information. Avoid relying solely on communication through email or instant messaging.
  • Do not share personal or financial information unless you are certain of the legitimacy of the prospective employer

Contact the Cyber Security Authority

The CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking guidance and assistance on online activities, Call or Text – 292, WhatsApp – 0501603111, Email – report@csa.gov.gh

Issued by Cyber Security Authority
November 21, 2023