That Recruiter Message Deserves a Second Look
Verify the employer before sharing sensitive information or sending money.
An employer’s logo and a familiar company name are not proof that a message is genuine. Treat an unexpected offer as something to verify before you act.
Start somewhere independent
Find the company’s official website yourself rather than relying only on the link in a message. Check the careers section and use an independently published contact route to confirm the recruiter or vacancy. A missing listing is a reason to investigate, not automatic proof of fraud.
The Federal Trade Commission warns about fake hiring arrangements involving checks, equipment purchases and payments sent back to someone else. A request to deposit a check and forward money is a major danger sign.
Slow the conversation down
Ask for the employer’s legal name, position description and hiring process. Be cautious when someone refuses ordinary verification but pressures you to act immediately. Do not supply bank information or identity documents to an unverified contact.
“Before continuing, I would like to verify the position through the company’s official recruiting channel. Please send the job title and posting reference.”
If something feels wrong
Save the messages and stop the transaction. The FTC’s job-scam guidance explains reporting options and steps to take if you sent money. Do not pay a second service that promises guaranteed recovery.
Keep legitimate applications moving while you verify the questionable one. An urgent search should not require you to skip basic checks or trust a person solely because they say you have already been selected.