The Job Scam Report Podcast

This week marks two years since the launch of “The Job Scam Report.” The project began as a direct response to a persistent job-market problem. Over that time, I’ve created more than 150 pieces of content—articles, videos, and podcasts.I’m grateful that more than 3,000 subscribers have chosen to join me on this journey. Many of you found your way here through my work on “The Voice of Job Seekers.” The origins of this project began with my observations there, watching job seekers not just being misled.They were lured and trapped.Job seekers have long been considered prey for scammers wanting to steal personal information. In 2022, as I began to pay closer attention to job scams, I noticed their methods were shifting. The term at the time was “job fishing”—I described it as “…catfishing, but for jobs.”As I began sharing my findings on LinkedIn, Marie Zimenoff—host of the Voice of America radio show and podcast “The Career Confidante”—invited me to discuss the topic. Back then, I didn’t view it as a long-term problem, but more as a temporary disruption. I expected job scams would subside as the job market reset and job seekers improved their strategies.However, instead of fading, job scams evolved into a more sophisticated form of theft. Technologies like AI and video, while revolutionary, also enabled bad actors to scale their efforts. As technology has helped us become smarter and more productive, it has also given scammers new tools for deception.Technology quickly became a double-edged sword. As excitement surged around AI and video production tools, scammers exploited these advances. It began with fake recruiters and HR managers impersonating real professionals, and soon escalated to fabricating entire company experiences—both fake start-ups and large corporations.Bad actors scraped information from companies like Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Facebook, creating fake websites that closely resembled the originals, but with slightly altered URLs.And they didn’t have to create a site to lure victims.They also use real recruiters’ LinkedIn profiles to persuade victims to interview, then extract personal information via WhatsApp, Zoom, and other platforms.There are many layers to job scams—their evolution and current state are worth exploring. Since launching here on May 13, 2024, I’ve had countless rewarding interactions, and thousands (if not tens of thousands) have benefited from my educational efforts on job scams.I’m also fortunate to have dedicated partners who help spread this message, sharing my passion for the cause. Special thanks to my podcast co-hosts—Ashley Price-Horton, Jay Jones, and Russell Irby—whose professionalism and insights constantly challenge and inspire me. Their observations and advice are helping thousands, and together, we make a powerful team.Our collective efforts have also drawn attention from mainstream media. Outlets like The Washington Times, Yahoo Finance, AOL, Newsbreak, Moneywise, and others highlighted an episode last year. We also had the opportunity to present before the Intel Alumni Group.I’ve appeared on numerous national outlets warning about job scams—including Marketplace Tech by APM, NPR, Forbes, the Boston Herald, and others.Two years later, I remain as passionate and motivated as I was on May 13, 2024. This Thursday, I’ll be sharing the five most important shows.Today’s episode is a rebroadcast of my appearance on the Voice of America’s “Career Confidante” from June 27, 2022. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is likely the primary tool in the scammer’s arsenal. Not because it is doing everything for scammers, but their scaling the use of AI is causing constant doubt and fear. Both are the kryptonite for most job seekers entering a bare-bones job market. Thanks for joining me for this short episode. In this episode, I continue to discuss briefly two articles:This article about Alaska came out after this episode was produced, but the report is recent. Rutgers article warns students to be hyper-aware of job and internship scams. Michigan is also ringing the alarms on campus about awareness. I also dive into the vigilance about background checks. This article discusses your rights and is a good way to educate yourself. My advice remains the same: clarify, verify, and don’t just apply.Stay safe and strategic out there. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

The job market is tough. In this episode, I break down why job scams are more dangerous than ever, what the latest data reveals, and how smart job seekers must protect themselves.What We Cover:* Why economic uncertainty and job seeker apprehension are ripe grounds for harvest in job scams* Scam evolution from obvious fake postings to convincing, process-driven fraud mimicking real hiring workflows* Why outdated red flags (bad spelling, free email accounts) are moot. They no longer work. * The structural warning signs you spot and avoid. * Key findings from a Norton survey of 1,000 U.S. adults:* 33% of Americans have encountered a job scam or suspicious posting* Gen Z is more than twice as likely as Baby Boomers to encounter scams (44% vs. 21%)* Nearly 1 in 4 people who encountered a scam fell for it* Average financial loss per victim: $8,900* Most impersonated brands: Amazon (30%), remote work agencies (29%), UPS/USPS (17%), FedEx, and the U.S. government* Only 61% of adults can accurately detect a job scam* Why Gen Z is scammed more frequently.What it means for your network.Key Takeaway:Job searching is like breathing — if the air is bad, you adapt your strategy. You don’t stop breathing.Clarify. Verify. Don’t just apply. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

You can’t trust what you can’t see. There’s truth and danger in that saying. Technology is a sophisticated conundrum, and job candidates may unknowingly interview with fake recruiters as AI avatars. Real companies use them, as do fake ones. The crew, Ashley, Jay, Russ, and I say you can’t trust everyone who is connected to hiring in any way, especially without researching them. Please listen to the end of the show when we discuss the groups most vulnerable to job scams. Here are a few of the highlights of our discussion:* Companies hiring fake employees, often actors from North Korea, who use these positions to gain long-term access to corporate and financial accounts before attacking.* We emphasize aggressive defense tactics: hanging up on suspected spam calls immediately to prevent voice cloning, and documenting job applications to help spot fraud and mysterious job offers.* With high concentrations of opportunities and a culture encourage information sharing, job seekers become prime targets. * Stolen data and money fund criminal organizations worldwide. We emphasize the importance of operating from a position of power rather than scarcity.* Special concern is raised for vulnerable populations: recent graduates unfamiliar with the job market, seasoned professionals laid off after 10+ years at one company, the elderly susceptible to scams, desperate job seekers who’ve exhausted unemployment benefits, and federal workers facing furloughs. * Military spouses seeking remote work are particularly at risk due to frequent relocations.* AI blurs the line between reality and deception.Successful job searching demands zero-trust verification tactics. Your skepticism isn’t paranoia—it’s your best security. The panel offers to provide educational sessions at colleges and military bases to help combat this growing threat. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Everyone needs to hear from someone or people who live and offer sound reasoning. Enter Russ Irby and Ashley Price-Horton. Russ Irby, a 25-year HR Director, is telling it like it is:-AI is not the "boogeyman."-Mailing a resume to a company without applying online makes you invisible.-The ATS is not the culprit.-Fake background checks can entangle your life, which takes years to unravel. Ashley, a former recruiter, now teaches how new CyberSecurity professionals find jobs:- AI bias and discrimination are discussed a lot, and how important it is to conduct audits on a regular basis of your AI tools, discriminatory policies, and processes.-While bias doesn’t apply to all companies, it doesn’t mean some aren’t.- There are a lot of secrets about how companies are utilizing it, ‘cause they don’t wanna run the risk of a lawsuit. -Companies must mitigate the potential of being responsible for bias. Enjoy the episode. For more of this, subscribe to the channel. Clarify.Verify.Don’t just apply.Vet everything and everyone. Today’s modern job search requires a safe, strategic, and well-informed approach.In case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below!If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

The mantra for 2026 when it comes to protecting your personal information is “Zero Trust!” You should be stingy with your personal information and only give it if you have researched the company and the people you interview, and feel safe. Your data privacy is the most valuable asset you own. In this episode, Ashley, Russ, and I discuss the hiring process in detail so you can know what feels right and when it’s suspicious. Discernment is key throughout the entire interview process, not just before you apply. Russ is mostly featured in the discussion because he is generously offering 25 years of HR experience in his current HR director role. There were a few powerful moments as we dissected the hiring process during this episode. Here are a few of the highlights:* We discuss how hard it is to trust video when we learned it was irrefutable. * Candidates are interviewing with AI avatars, but they should find out before the interview how it will be conducted. * Job seekers must beware of voice cloning. Entertaining conversations with scammers makes you vulnerable. * More companies are guarding against fake employees (often bad actors from North Korea).* Scammers use fake identities to gain long-term access to corporate infrastructure.* Russ explains why the ATS and AI (AI only does what it’s programmed to do, garbage in, garbage out) aren’t the hiring “boogeyman.” * Humans, not machines, are making the decisions.* Red flag: Rushed hiring processes from large companies (they don’t operate that way).* Trust shouldn’t be your personal default setting. “Zero Trust” must be applied until thorough due diligence is done. Don’t miss these shows…In case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below!If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Zero Trust. That’s what we need to use as a personal defense system against unfamiliar or strange communications, or from people we did not vet before they communicate with us. We hope you’ll join the cast of “The Job Scam Report” on Saturday, Feb. 28, 10 am CST - 11 am EST for our LinkedIn Livestream. This is a special WEEKEND edition, so you can sign up for a show notification.In this episode, the cast, with Ashley Price-Horton, Jay Jones, and Russell Irby, are discussing our observations with the job scam tactics becoming more realistic, polished, and seamlessly delivered. It might be the most important episode, given how accessible the technology for creating illusions is, including to parasites who plot to steal our personal information. Here are highlights of our discussion: * We can’t afford to trust what we see and hear. * AI-generated deepfake videos are hard to detect. * Companies and job seekers are falling for “bait and wait.” * Bantering with parasites can be a trap to clone your voice. *  Successful hiring and job searching now absolutely demands zero-trust verification tactics. * AI interview deepfakes make the “John Cena Test” obsolete.* Taking time to vet recruiters is a MUST. Allow time before responding to a (fake) recruiter’s inquiry.In case you missed these episodes…In case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below!If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports that Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than to home burglaries, with digital crime-related financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Here's an uncomfortable truth your mind won't want to believe: Job scams will be as prevalent in the next three weeks as they've been all year. We should all anticipate an increase in AI-generated job scams, given how remarkably "goodwill" this season is. Those in the job hunt must navigate this time with shrewdness and high awareness. But let's be real: All of our minds will want these fake messages to be true. Ron Krebs, CEO of Kidas, is passionate about using AI to make people's lives safer and better.Here’s what we covered:Technology has advanced rapidly; simple visual tests, like asking someone to wave their hand in front of their face (the “John Cena test”), are no longer effective against sophisticated AI.Ron categorizes the threats into three groups: fake videos of public figures, AI bots simulating conversation, and digital masks allow scammers to hide their real identities during video calls.Ron said while scammers impersonate companies to steal data, some applicants are now using deepfakes to cheat during interviews or infiltrate companies from sanctioned regions.If you receive an email, verify it by calling or texting the sender, and vice versa.Scrutinize email addresses and URLs to ensure they match the official company domain.Be careful about posting real-time location or meeting data, as scammers use this to personalize their attacks.Legitimate companies rarely text without prior opt-in. Treat unexpected messages as suspicious.OUR TJSR mantra: “Clarify, verify, and don’t just apply.”In case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below!If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Our military personnel and veterans are often targets of all kinds of scams. Bad actors target them because of their frequent moves and transitions. They also understand that their service profiles contain valuable information that can serve as assets. H.R. 1663, also known as the VSAFE Act, enables the military to provide specific resources to active-duty service members, veterans, and spouses. One estimate says veterans lost $177 million to job scams in 2021. And around that same time, McAfee reported a massive spike in job scam activity over just a couple of months.Here are some highlights from the show: * New legislation to help veterans, active service members, and military spouses combat scams* Creates dedicated fraud response roles within the VA* Establishes faster alert systems and consistent scam reporting procedures.* Resources available at vsafe.gov and the VA fraud hotline.* Veterans lost $177 million to job scams in 2021 (numbers have increased since).* Military families face unique vulnerabilities: frequent relocations, desire for remote work, and constant transitions* Scammers exploit trust by using phrases like “veteran-owned” or “veteran-friendly.”* Remote work opportunities are especially appealing to military spouses who move frequently.In case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below!If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

The battleground in spotting and avoiding deepfake job interview videos is just beginning, which is one reason why I wanted publish this episode. I also saw an article this week discussing AI-generated deepfake videos and their ability to fool even the most sophisticated and vigilant. The show was moderated by Gina Riley for the Intel Alumni group. In addition to deepfake mentions, we also mention fake programs and certifications, as well as scams on LinkedIn. If you want to listen to the entire episode, you can catch the show’s cast on a panel with Gina Riley as moderator for “Path to Next Series: Avoiding Job Scams.” I’m including the link to the Intel Alumni page here (Path to Next Series Avoiding Job Scams). Both Jay Jones and Ashley Price-Horton join me in addressing and answering related job scam issues:* Spoofed career service professionals luring victims outside of LinkedIn.* Asking critical questions to help spot and avoid job scams. * Job scraping.* The difference between vigilance and paranoiaHere are other episodes you might have missedIn case you’re conducting a job search…Affiliate link below! If job searching feels broken, that’s because it is.Most people are fighting over the same handful of posted roles…while the real opportunities circulate quietly through networks, referrals, and direct sourcing.Job Search 3.0 teaches you how to show up where recruiters are actually looking—before a job ever goes public.If you’re ready to shift from chasing opportunities to attracting them, this is worth a look.👉 https://jimstroud.graphy.com?affCode=L1MIWENeed help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Kevin Turner, a well-known Brand Strategist and LinkedIn expert, offered a post-show perspective on job scams on LinkedIn. He says a stolen LinkedIn profile could be leveraged on other platforms, such as Facebook and Fiverr, to sell fake services. He says bad actors will use the credibility through endorsements and references on LinkedIn to build false trust for scams on other platforms. Kevin mentions an article he wrote on LinkedIn about ‘fake recruiters on LinkedIn sending, DMS messaging to individuals on LinkedIn and saying, Hey, I’ve got an incredible opportunity.You look like a perfect match. And when somebody would look at it, they’d go and they’d say, just click on the link and look at it, read it, and if you’re interested. Get back into the DMs. What they did when they clicked that link was relinquish through that process.”Enjoy the show. Need help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to proactively help protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I hate “ghost jobs” as much as the next job seeker, and I’m not looking for a job. But I am trying to make sense of it all and will need help explaining, I hope, more clearly than you’ll see in most LinkedIn posts. There are many articles about ghost jobs, but not in the context of the differences between fake and ghost jobs. In this episode of the podcast, there is a past one I did with Craig Fisher. It’s a five-minute excerpt in which he provides a clear reason for ghost jobs, reframed as “evergreen jobs,” and how companies use the data they collect. I have to be fair and not villainize its use, while hating it like crazy, because for job seekers, the extra work of discerning the difference between the fake ones is. When job seekers vent about, **ahem** “evergreen jobs,” they feel the waste of valuable time in discerning between the two. The elementary part of the fake and ghost jobs is they come from fake companies or posts created by fake recruiters. But you deserve a further breakdown.What do we know about ghost jobs?This won’t go well with experienced recruiters, not because they are the perpetrator or villain. They work for the company to actively fill vacant roles. Many others feel your pain, including those trying to pass legislation. Craig and I talked in August of 2024. Since then, I discovered additional resources, including some legislation, to mainly require the employer and job boards to identify their “evergreen” or (ghost job). Ghost jobs have been a concern for decades.I found this 2003 Chicago Tribune article featuring my friend Robin Ryan, who expressed concern about job seekers’ reliance on job boards. Back then, “phantom vacancies” (now “ghost jobs”) were called out because the number of job applicants was suspect. Even then, the widespread use of measuring talent pipelines, using data to inform employers of ideal applicants, and appealing to stakeholders and investors creates the impression that jobs are in high demand. This is why data collection requires transparency. This Colombia Law Review article, Ghost Jobs, uses the word “deception” at least 20 times, indicating that the collection of personal information is not merely misleading. They are hard to identify and avoid for most applicants, even when job postings list an expired date. The paper calls for more transparency and forthrightness when posting the job. Here’s a model for federal law?The California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA) requires companies to provide job seekers with an opt-out option so their information is not shared with anyone. Their law includes the right for anyone to delete their personal information, where and how it’s used, and if it’s sold and to whom or what. There are 20 states with laws and guidelines that are somewhat similar but not as comprehensive as those in California. Here are two federal bills proposed as drafts for comprehensive regulation. The first below is not employment-specific, but the other could be a game-changer. I won’t go into either at the moment, but you might want to check them out. I’ll cover them in future articles and podcasts. The American Privacy Rights Act (APRA) The Truth in Job Advertising and Accountability Act (TJAAA)Today, companies view your personal information as their asset. Craig is a fractional talent acquisition leader and consultant for various companies. I am republishing a short excerpt from our original conversation from the fall of 2024, as it wraps up what ghost jobs are from a company’s point of view. It’s probably the best one I’ve heard to date. Here’s what Craig told me about ghost jobs:* Ghost jobs are seen as ‘evergreen jobs” because of the constant need and turnover.* The collected information is not sold (personal opinion, it might be sold), and it also states actual companies are not “the bad actors.” * Companies are building candidate lists, and he also framed this process through the lens of evergreen roles.* Storage and Use: Job seeker data are placed into an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Sometimes, recruiters use this data to find candidates who have applied previously.* When lists become stagnant, the organization may send an email to “wake the dead” to seek out potentially available applicants.* Some employers and ATS makers are beginning to implement policies that purge collected data after a set period, such as 12 months. The downside of collecting job seekers’ personal information is the risk of data breaches, which are usually handled by data storage companies. We dig a little deep into the full conversation of the episode below. The most important part of this is each of us taking responsibility for protecting one of our primary assets, our personal information. There is no social or employment platform, law, or privacy guideline to protect or save us from bad actors. Job scams and the fight to protect an individual’s personal information from deviant behavior are not just the future.It is a raging war now!Here’s what no one is talking about:How to avoid applying to “ghost jobs?”Companies should add an asterisk to their “ghost job” postings or give job seekers a choice about how to use the application’s job data. A few of these I mentioned in an interview for Fast Company. You can choose not to apply to jobs currently marked by these yellow flags:* Look for companies that clearly state their hiring process. * Avoid applying for jobs with expired posting dates. * Apply to jobs posted on the company’s website. Bad actors create company websites by scraping data from real companies and misspelling the URL. If a URL is misspelled, consider it suspect and move on.* Companies should have a data privacy policy at the beginning of their application. Read it, and if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with their statement, continue. If not, then discontinue applying. * Craig mentioned companies may delete job seeker data after a year. In California, a job seeker can request the deletion, but it is not a universal policy. As I always say:ClarifyVerifyDon’t just apply.Your personal information is an asset. You have a right to control who has it and how it’s used. Need help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to proactively help protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today.In case you missed these episodes… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode of “The Job Scam Report,” the entire crew is back to collaborate on some of the most pressing job scam news. Ashley Price-Horton, Jay Jones, and Russell Irby are back to help make sense of it all. I kicked off our panel with breaking news about LinkedIn’s “Open To Work” badge and recent changes to its visibility and searchability. LinkedIn has made it so the badge is supposedly visible and searchable to recruiters using LinkedIn’s Recruiter’s Tool (which recruiters pay for). Jay, Ashley, Russ, and I discussed LinkedIn’s efforts to vet recruiters and prevent scams, but we’re skeptical about the effectiveness. Ashley pointed out that scammers can easily create fake companies and emails, and Jay noted that LinkedIn’s list of suspicious job titles is far from comprehensive. Russ stated that these changes seem more like a money grab, making it harder for legitimate recruiters while still allowing scammers to pay to get in. We all agreed automation favors scammers, and unless LinkedIn adds a human element, the problem will persist. Ashley experimented with different hashtag variations, with and without the hashtag, and found that“Open To Work” related searches still surface results, so the issue is far from resolved.Need help keeping your private information safe?I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that “Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to proactively help protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today.Did you miss these podcast episodes? Catch up now! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s minisode, I’m warning students about the dangers of money mule scams disguised as job offers. The FBI states, “Criminals recruit money mules to help launder proceeds derived from online scams and frauds or crimes like human trafficking and drug trafficking.”Criminals target unsuspecting students looking for easy money to move funds through personal accounts. Many students don’t know they’re committing a crime by participating. These activities are crimes that lead to frozen bank accounts, dismissal from financial aid programs, and potential negative background checks that limit career prospects. Cases of student money mules increased by 23% in 2023. 35% of young people say they would consider moving money for a fee, with 14% saying they are “very likely” to do so.https://home.barclays/insights/2025/10/Student-scams-fake-jobs/I explain how these scams work, and urge career advisors to educate students. Not only do I hope college career services prioritize job scam education, but I also hope they start it at the beginning of the school year and continue throughout the year.Finally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that “Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to proactively help protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s episode is the presentation Jay, Ashley, and I gave at the Intel Corporation Alumni Network’s monthly “Path to Next Series.” A big shout-out to Gina Riley, a member of the organization, who invited us out to present “Avoid Job Scams.”These are my notes for the presentation, “Path to Next Series: Avoiding Job Scams.” I’ve included the link to the Intel Alumni page here. We provided and inferred a lot of information, but didn’t include the sources. With the help of AI, I found many of the relevant references. Jay JonesJay provided fantastic insight into the psychological manipulations used by scammers and offered concrete strategies for defense, especially regarding profiles and data harvesting.Ten Standout Points:* Jay established the core psychology of job scams: they target individuals who have recently been laid off, whose confidence is hit, and who are thus “primed to be scammed”.* He coined the term “recruiting love bombers” for scammers who use flattery (e.g., “How could someone of your caliber be in this job market?”) to play on the job seeker’s need for validation and attention.* Jay debunked the common scam tactic of claiming a resume “failed the ATS” or scored poorly (e.g., 20/100), explaining that the ATS is merely a digital filing cabinet.* He emphasized that scammers rely on the victim’s perceived need to act fast, pushing them down a “scammer pipeline” toward fake job offers.* He introduced the concept of “scam killing questions,” advising job seekers to regain control by asking critical questions like: “Who are you?”, “What is the website?”, and “What is the job requisition number?”.* Jay demonstrated how to perform a Boolean search (putting the job description in quotes on Google) to quickly find out if a supposed “fresh” job post is actually months old or closed.* He defined job scraping as the process where interlopers take job descriptions they have no affiliation with and use them to data harvest and sell job seekers’ information to data brokers.* He revealed a significant increase in hijacked profiles (inactive, verified, or premium accounts compromised by scammers), suggesting a tell-tale sign is when the career history does not match the person’s sudden new role (e.g., a construction worker claiming to be a resume writer).* Jay provided critical advice to treat a resume like a credit card application. The information, combined with public sites like Whitepages or Zillow, allows scammers to complete a background check request to obtain highly sensitive data, such as a driver’s license or Social Security number.* He encouraged the audience to understand that they are valuable and that the current chaotic job market does not reflect their true worth.Ashley Price HortonAshley provided practical steps for job seekers to vet opportunities, avoid major job boards, and handle the aftermath of falling for a scam.Ten Standout Points:* Ashley strongly advised against being “blindsided by emotion,” urging job seekers to stop, step back, and perform due diligence on every opportunity.* She recommends job seekers move away from third-party job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, and instead, go straight to the source by using the legitimate company’s career website.* She emphasized checking the original career site because a job advertised as posted “3 hours ago” on a job board might have been published three months ago on the company’s site.* When dealing with legitimate external search firms, she stressed that due diligence is key; if you cannot find research or confirmation that the firm is well-known (like Tech Systems), the risk might be too high.* Ashley identified the classic scam warning sign: a recruiter post using the word “kindly” while offering the “perfect opportunity,” usually found in the profile’s comment section.* She pointed out that scammers often steal profile pictures of real, reputable individuals, including celebrities or executives, making visual vetting essential.* If a job seeker sends a resume to a scammer, she immediately advises locking their credit bureau accounts and only unlocking them briefly for legitimate applications.* Another key post-scam action is to immediately notify any references listed on the resume, warning them not to share information if contacted by nefarious actors.* Ashley advocated for balancing searchability (using keywords and career history on LinkedIn) with safety, recommending that job seekers not share personal details, such as email and phone numbers, publicly.* She maintains that the level of due diligence should be consistent regardless of the recruiter’s location (e.g., India), requiring evidence that they are a legitimate employee or partner of the leading company.Mark Anthony DysonI focused on the critical importance of mindset, the future evolution of video scams, and the use of tools to verify the legitimacy of websites.Ten Standout Points:* I stressed that the correct mindset starts before the job search; people should be intentional and purposeful in applying only to jobs that fit their role, avoiding the “spraying and praying” method.* I explained that job seekers can more easily recognize fake opportunities if they have already researched the realistic salary expectations for their industry and region.* I identified “layoff PTSD” and “unemployment fatigue” as conditions that create a scarcity mindset, making a job seeker vulnerable because they are “running on empty”.* I warned the audience that deep fake videos are quickly becoming the next significant job scam, where job seekers might soon have “fake video interviews” with realistic avatars.* To test for suspicious video interviews, I referenced the “John Cena test” by asking the interviewer to wave their hand in front of their face and say, “Hey, can you see me?” If the lips or video quality appear slow or suspect. If they can’t, the interviewer is an avatar or fake. * I specifically mentioned that federal government employees experiencing shutdowns may become vulnerable targets for scams offering fake government programs or certificate schemes.* I advised the audience to avoid pressing links from suspicious profiles entirely, as they are likely to install spyware or malware to track web activity and potentially steal financial information.* I recommended using whois.com to check the site owner of a suspicious URL and confirm if the ownership aligns with the legitimate company, with particular attention to avoiding recently created sites.* I pointed out that companies do not use fake URL extensions like careers-addeco.com. If a recruiter uses a non-proprietary URL (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook) or a URL with added extensions, it is a clear warning sign.* I provided my closing mantra for the audience: “Clarify, verify, but don’t just apply,” emphasizing the need to check every detail, no matter how laborious it seems.Scale of the Problem* Job Scams Hit $2 Billion AnnuallyEmployment-related scams now cost U.S. and Canadian job seekers over $2B each year, with 14 million people exposed annually.Source: Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker, 2024* Job Scam Losses Triple Since 2020Reported losses to employment scams surged more than threefold from 2020 to 2023, surpassing $220M in H1 2024 alone.Source: Federal Trade Commission, Data Spotlight, 2024* Most Victims Block, Not Report57% of Americans who encounter scam messages block rather than report them, allowing scam networks to persist.Source: IPX1031 Fraud & Identity Theft in America, 2024Psychology & Manipulation* ‘Recruiting Love Bombers’ Exploit ValidationScammers praise victims (‘someone of your caliber...’) to build trust and lower skepticism before phishing for data.Source: FBI IC3 Employment Scam Bulletin, 2024* Layoffs Increase Scam RiskThose recently laid off are emotionally vulnerable and thus more likely to fall for employment scams.Source: FightCybercrime.org, 2024* Average Loss Per Victim: $8,700Victims of job scams report median losses of $8,700, with personal data resold to brokers and reused in new scams.Source: Surfshark Research, 2024Fake Jobs & Data Harvesting* 21% of Online Listings Are ‘Ghost Jobs’Nearly a quarter of job ads are never intended to be filled; they collect resumes or maintain an illusion of growth.Source: ArXiv Ghost Job Market Study, 2024* Job Scraping Enables Data HarvestingFake recruiters reuse legitimate postings to gather resumes, selling the data through illicit broker networks.Source: Privacy Journal, 2025AI & Deepfakes* ‘Gamified’ Task Scams ExplodeScammers promise payment for small online ‘tasks’ but steal deposits or personal data instead.Source: FTC Data Spotlight, 2024* Deepfake Job Interviews EmergingAI-generated avatars and cloned voices now simulate recruiters or interviewers on video calls.Source: Trend Micro Threat Report, 2024* Check Domain Age Before ApplyingVerify URLs via WHOIS — fake career portals often use new or mismatched domains like careers-addeco.com.Source: WHOIS & ScamAdviser Report, 2024Recovery & Reporting* Freeze Credit Immediately After a ScamVictims should lock their credit files and only unfreeze them for legitimate applications.Source: FTC Consumer Advice, 2024* Notify References After ExposureInform references that scammers may impersonate recruiters and request personal data.Source: Identity Theft Resource Center, 2024* Only 14% Report Job ScamsA minority of victims file official reports, perpetuating the underestimation of total scam volume.Source: IPX1031 Survey, 2024Finally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that “Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to proactively help protect your identity, finances, and devices. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Thanks for joining this very special edition of the podcast. Several of my industry colleagues in the career field recounted their experiences of being spoofed (or duped) by bad actors. Jay Jones, co-host of the podcast, moderated this panel entitled “Hijacked Identities: How to Protect Your Brand and Job Seekers from Scams,” which was streamed as a LinkedIn Live event. Each participant gave me permission to share their panel with you on the podcast.If you would rather see the video, you can check it out on LinkedIn.Each of them recounts their collective experiences with similar feelings or horror and disbelief: * Bad actors used their reputations and credentials to lure victims into fake and deceitful offers.* The spoofing had a widespread effect on multiple platforms, including LinkedIn and Fiverr.* The emotional toll and the ongoing effort required to protect their reputation and intellectual property are hard. * Melissa, Jessica, and Erin all became urgent in their responses once they realized bad actors had fooled a few people enough to question what they saw. Here are some highlights: * The first part is a presentation by Jay, providing an overview of his findings on investigating fake jobs and profiles. * Each panelist agrees vigilance is essential, as platforms can only do so much.* Erin points out the prevalence of content theft and the escalation to direct impersonation.* Melissa emphasizes the vulnerability of job seekers and the lengths scammers go to exploit them.* Jay stated scams can erode trust in professionals. They already make the job market more difficult. * The panel agrees and emphasizes the importance of due diligence, including verifying job postings and recruiters.* They also highlight common red flags, including requests to leave LinkedIn, use of Gmail addresses, overly flattering messages, and requests for personal details. Finally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for ‘The Job Scam Report’ were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I’m happy to announce that “Aura’s All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of “The Job Scam Report.” It’s powered by AI to help protect your identity, finances, and devices proactively. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this in-depth interview, Mark Anthony Dyson speaks with HR veteran Russell Irby (https://www.linkedin.com/in/russirby) about the growing challenges in today’s job market, particularly the prevalence of fake jobs, fake candidates, and the impact of technology and AI on both job seekers and employers. The conversation opens with technical difficulties in streaming, which serves as a metaphor for the broader confusion and glitches in the job market itself.Russ explains that HR professionals are now contending with a flood of applications, many of which are generated by AI-powered services that indiscriminately apply to hundreds of jobs, often without proper qualifications. This not only overwhelms HR departments but also exposes job seekers to scams and identity theft, as their personal information is sent to fake job postings designed to harvest data.The discussion delves into the phenomenon of fake candidates—individuals, often from overseas, who use sophisticated methods (including AI and proxy interviewees) to secure jobs under false pretenses. These bad actors can gain access to sensitive company information, resulting in significant financial and reputational harm. Russ notes that companies are increasingly returning to in-person interviews for final rounds to combat this threat.Mark and Russ also address the emotional toll of layoffs, both for those let go and for HR professionals tasked with delivering the news. They discuss the concept of "survivor's guilt" among remaining employees and the lack of empathy often shown to HR staff, who are frequently the last to know about impending layoffs.The conversation shifts to the issue of ghost jobs—positions posted by companies that do not actually exist, often used to collect resumes or create the illusion of growth. Russ clarifies that while some companies may engage in this practice, more often it is third-party "scrapers" reposting legitimate jobs to mine data.Both Mark and Russ emphasize the importance of due diligence for job seekers: verifying the legitimacy of job postings, being realistic about qualifications, and maintaining intentionality in the application process. They highlight the limitations of AI in detecting fake candidates and job postings, as well as the continued value of human touches, such as sending thank-you emails and making personal follow-ups.The interview concludes with advice on addressing employment gaps, the realities of bias in hiring, and the need for continuous upskilling and networking. Russ encourages job seekers not to be discouraged by rejection, to focus on what they can control, and to always be prepared for change in the job market.10 Main Points:* The job market is flooded with fake jobs and fake candidates, making it harder for both job seekers and HR professionals.* AI-powered mass applications increase the risk of identity theft and overwhelm HR departments.* Fake candidates, often from overseas, use advanced tactics to secure jobs and can cause significant harm to companies.* Companies are moving back to in-person interviews to better verify candidate authenticity.* Layoffs are emotionally taxing for both employees and HR staff, who are often not involved in the decision-making process.* Ghost jobs and data-mining "scrapers" add to the confusion and risk in the job search process.* Job seekers must be diligent, verify job postings, and be realistic about their qualifications.* Human touches—like thank-you emails and personal follow-ups—help differentiate real candidates from AI-generated ones.* Employment gaps should be addressed honestly, with emphasis on any productive activities during the gap.* Continuous learning, networking, and emotional resilience are essential for navigating today’s challenging job market.Finally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for 'The Job Scam Report' were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I'm happy to announce that "Aura's All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of "The Job Scam Report." It's powered by AI to help protect your identity, finances, and devices proactively. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I discuss with Ashley the alarming rise in job scams and how scammers exploit the personal information found on resumes. We highlight that resumes are not just tools for job applications—they’re also potential gateways for identity theft and other cybercrimes. I share recent statistics showing a dramatic increase in scam attempts and emphasize the importance of being vigilant about the information we include on our resumes and with whom we share them.Ashley and I break down the specific vulnerabilities that can be exploited, such as addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, references, and even certification numbers. We recommend taking practical steps, such as using a city and state instead of a full address, setting up a separate email and phone number for job applications, and avoiding the inclusion of sensitive details, such as salary history or license numbers. We also discuss the risks of sharing too much about previous employers and accomplishments, as scammers may use this information to target companies or gather intelligence.We touch on the dangers of metadata in resume files, the differences between Word and PDF documents, and the importance of scanning links and attachments before clicking. We stress the need to vet companies before applying and to be cautious with LinkedIn and other public profiles. Ultimately, our goal is to help job seekers protect themselves by being proactive, skeptical, and informed, knowing that while we can’t eliminate all risk, we can significantly reduce our exposure to scams.10 Main Points (First Person):* Resumes are a major target for scammers and identity thieves.* Avoid including a full address and instead use only the city and state.* Use a separate phone number (such as Google Voice) and email address specifically for job applications.* Never list references or their contact details on a resume until you’ve vetted the company.* Don’t include certification or license numbers. Just the credential and issuing organization.* Be careful about sharing details of previous employers. * Never put salary history or a photo on a resume, especially for private sector jobs.* Metadata in my resume files can reveal more than intended, so remove it before sending.* Always scan links and attachments (using tools like VirusTotal) before clicking or applying.* Vet every company and recruiter, and be cautious about what’s shared on LinkedIn and other public profiles.Finally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for 'The Job Scam Report' were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone.Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers.I'm happy to announce that "Aura's All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of "The Job Scam Report." It's powered by AI to help protect your identity, finances, and devices proactively. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Editor’s note: This article also includes an affiliate link where I would receive a commission. Scammers create fake job postings, especially for remote “bridge jobs,” to steal resumes and personal information from vulnerable job seekers. We discussed common red flags, such as vague job descriptions, ghost recruiters, and recently registered domains. Jay Jones and I hit a variety of LinkedIn job scam topics in this short but value-filled episode.If you’re looking for baseline tips to stay job scam-free on LinkedIn, this episode is for you. Jay explains how scammers also impersonate career coaches and resume writers, hijack legitimate profiles, and even lease real LinkedIn accounts to appear credible. We talk about LinkedIn’s efforts to combat scams, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance and personal responsibility. We share real-world consequences, including financial loss and even forced labor, and urge listeners to report suspicious activity, verify recruiters, and protect their online presence. The Scale of Job Scams* Jay shares recent findings: thousands of fake jobs and profiles* Discussion of how scammers target job seekers, especially those looking for “bridge jobs” (data entry, customer service, remote work)* How scammers steal resumes and use them for further scamsRed Flags and Warning Signs* Most common signs of fake jobs: boilerplate/vague descriptions, recently registered domains, ghost recruiters* Importance of pausing and verifying before applying* Affiliate marketing abuse: fake jobs leading to survey sites for profitScams Targeting Career Services* Rise in fake career coaches and resume writers* Scammers steal real professionals’ profiles and undercut prices* Real-world examples: fake websites impersonating legitimate coachesProtecting Your Brand and Online Presence* Jay’s work in helping professionals protect their brands* Tactics scammers use: hacking websites, hijacking established profiles* Importance of monitoring your online presence and reporting suspicious activityLinkedIn’s Response and Limitations* Discussion of LinkedIn’s new verification for recruiters and hiring officials* Concerns about existing fake accounts and hijacked profiles* The “Open to Work” banner: benefits and risks, how scammers target those displaying itAccount Leasing and Hijacking* How scammers lease or buy real LinkedIn accounts to appear legitimate* Dangers of giving up account credentialsReporting and Responding to Scams* Always report suspicious activity, but don’t engage with scammers* Risks of clicking unsubscribe or links in scam emailsLong-Term Vigilance* Scammers constantly adapt; ongoing vigilance is necessary* The role of AI in new scam tactics* Empowering job seekers: vet recruiters, do research, trust your instinctsReal-World Consequences* Stories of people being kidnapped or forced into scam operations* Global scale: scam “farms” in various countriesResources and Where to Find More* Jay’s website: jonesdoucopy.com* LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jonesbluecopy* Mark’s Substack: markanthonydyson.substack.comClosing Thoughts* Final advice: clarify, verify, but don’t just apply* Stay vigilant and scam-freeFinally…I wanted to ensure that the companies I partner with for 'The Job Scam Report' were a good fit. The FBI reports Americans are losing significantly more to cybercrime than home burglaries, with digital crime financial losses reaching approximately $12.5 billion in 2023 alone. Job search strategy and safety should be top of mind for all job seekers. I'm happy to announce that "Aura's All-in-One Online Safety is an affiliate of "The Job Scam Report." It's powered by AI to help protect your identity, finances, and devices proactively. With $1M Identity Theft Insurance and 24/7, U.S.-based expert support, you can job search with little worry of protecting your computer and personal information.Try Aura risk-free today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I hope you enjoyed your holiday if you were off. I hope you enjoy this minisode of the podcast. Ashley, Jay, and I discuss how federal layoffs make workers vulnerable to job scams, the risks of sharing resume end dates, differences between federal and civilian resumes, and strategies for safer job searching.We are continuing to see court orders turning over mass layoff mandates, including the Supreme Court’s ruling from this past July. We can expect to see more of this this fall. Threat actors are using fake career services, such as resume writing services, to obtain personal information. Ashley explains why the end date is valuable to scammers. If you’re seeing this on Substack, you can watch the video below: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

“The Resume Is Dead” was written on the t-shirt of Vrijen Attawar, Founder and CEO of Careerspan. His company helps job seekers develop their professional story through conversational coaching and tailored resumes.Vrijen started as a career coach, and along with his co-founder of Careerspan, saw the need to address the problem of the blurred lines of fake and ghost jobs. During our conversation, one thing he made clear: the resume is a vulnerability in today’s job application process.While we don’t delve into the details, we brought into focus the prevalence of job scams, including fake jobs, ghost jobs, and the use of AI in hiring scams.Here are a few highlights from our conversation:* Careerspan helps job seekers develop their professional story through conversational coaching and tailored resumes.* Fake jobs are explicitly fraudulent, often used for data collection or to scam money from applicants.* Ghost jobs are legitimate postings by real companies with no intention to hire, often used for data collection or "cream skimming" rare candidates.* A significant percentage of HR professionals are aware of or condone posting ghost jobs for various reasons.* Job seekers are especially vulnerable to scams due to stress and desperation, which scammers exploit.* Resumes are a major vector for personal data exposure, making job seekers targets for identity theft and scams.* Companies sometimes use informal channels (like Telegram or WhatsApp) for hiring, which is a red flag for scams.* Job seekers should use traditional verification methods (Glassdoor, Better Business Bureau, LinkedIn) and be skeptical of AI tools for job validation.* Critical thinking, cross-referencing job postings, and direct communication with current or former employees are essential for avoiding scams. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Here are some basics to apply to any and all attempts to get your financial and personal information:* Never give your passwords to anyone.* Use a password manager* Use MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) IN all circumstances* Be a critical thinker (more in the video)1. Fake Job Application Portals* How it works: They send you a link to a professional-looking career site or “secure application form” that mimics a real company’s job portal.* Goal: You’re prompted to “log in” using an email and password — and if you reuse that password for your bank or PayPal, they’ve got a direct entry point.* Clues: URL slightly misspelled, odd subdomains (careers-companyname.xyz), or the page doesn’t exist on the company’s real site.2. Malicious Attachments* How it works: You’re sent a PDF or Word document labeled “Job Application,” “Offer Letter,” or “Job Description” containing malware.* Goal: Once opened, the malware records your keystrokes, captures passwords, or installs a remote access tool.* Clues: The file asks you to “Enable Macros” or “Allow Content,” which can execute hidden malicious code.3. Phishing Emails* How it works: A fake recruiter or HR manager needs you to “verify your account” before an interview. The link leads to a fake login page for your email, bank, or payment processor.* Goal: Steal your credentials directly.* Clues: Urgent tone (“Only filling five positions!”), generic greetings, mismatched email addresses.4. “Direct Deposit Setup” Scams* How it works: After a fake job offer, they send you forms to set up payroll and benefits. They ask for online banking credentials “to verify your account.”* Goal: Access your financial accounts under the pretense of setting up payment.* Clues: Legitimate employers never need your online banking login — only routing and account numbers for deposits.5. Fake Background Check or Credit Report Links* How it works: They claim the job requires a background check you must pay for online, using a link to a “screening partner.”* Goal: Capture your credit card logins, bank credentials, or whole SSN.* Clues: They insist you use their provided link, not a known vendor like Checkr, Sterling, or HireRight.6. “Work From Home Equipment” Purchase Requests* How it works: They promise reimbursement for buying laptops or software, but you must log into a “company payment system” to receive the funds.* Goal: Get your login credentials for PayPal, Zelle, or your bank.* Clues: Legit companies either ship equipment or use established vendors — not login-gated reimbursement portals.7. Social Media DMs With Job Offers* How it works: They message you on LinkedIn or WhatsApp about an “exclusive remote job” with high pay, then push you to complete onboarding via a suspicious website.* Goal: Trick you into creating an account with credentials you often reuse for other services.* Clues: Profile has limited work history, a recent creation date, or no mutual connections. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I had the privilege of speaking with Michael Schuemack from IdentityIQ, a cybersecurity company monitoring scam activity. We dove deep into the surge of job scams, their tactics, and strategies job seekers can implement themselves.Michael explained that his organization can anticipate some trends, but they often confirm new scam tactics only after hearing from affected members.Social platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, TikTok, and WhatsApp are all fertile ground for scammers, and no job board is immune. The lack of verification on these platforms allows bad actors to pose as legitimate recruiters or companies, making it even harder for job seekers to distinguish real opportunities from scams.Scammers target individuals using specific keywords, such as “open to work,” and target potential victims based on their interest in entry-level roles, remote jobs, and high-turnover fields like tech, healthcare, and virtual assistance. They prey on people’s emotions, such as stress, anxiety, and desperation.Bad actors initiate contact through messages that seem promising. Once a job seeker responds, scammers use social engineering to extract personal information or money.Michael and I agreed that blocking and reporting scammers is necessary, but it often feels like a game of whack-a-mole. The best defense is a proactive offense: research every company that contacts you, never pay for job guides or certifications as part of the application process, and be wary of job descriptions that seem too polished or generic. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.Tools such as Grammarly and AI-detection apps can sometimes spot AI-generated or scammy content. Knowledge and awareness are the most powerful tools job seekers must embrace and practice.Highlights from our discussion:* Vet companies, recruiters, and hiring managers. Verifying and researching job postings through their official websites and job boards. Contact the company directly.* Never pay for job guides, certifications, or training as part of the application or interview process.* Be cautious of job offers that seem too good to be true, especially for remote or entry-level roles.* Watch out for job descriptions that are overly polished, generic, or lack company-specific details.* Trust your instincts. Disengage if something feels off or investigate further. One sign of a red flag is enough to block.* Don’t share personal or financial information with recruiters or companies you haven’t verified.* Use tools like Grammarly or AI-detection apps to check for AI-generated or scammy content.* Be wary of unsolicited messages, especially those that ask you to click links or provide information.* Block and report suspicious accounts, but know that scammers will keep trying—stay vigilant.* Educate yourself about the latest scam tactics and share what you learn with others.These are two subscriber-only pieces of content I’ve recently published. These should be very helpful to combat job scams. If you’re a free subscriber, and would like to get the additional member content available, and to come, upgrade your subscription below: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Just like a landmine of explosives covered by dirt, in plain sight, the fake job market exists. Job seekers are fatigued by the numerous dead-end applications they’re filling out. Fake jobs from phony companies are listed on the same page as ghost jobs from legitimate companies, and the average job seeker now has to conduct due diligence before applying.Right now, consider its present state the norm, with any change out of the question. I wish there were a fake job board. But, how would it be different than the ones now? A Greenhouse survey from last winter revealed 18%-22% of job boards list ghost jobs.Fake jobs vs. ghost jobsLet’s say it’s the job seeker’s fault they’re not researching companies before applying. Are they likely spending 20% or more of their time chasing the wind?Blurred lines exist at first glance. Let’s define them:Ghost jobsCompanies will post a job to fill their talent pool pipeline. They want options and want to fill their database. The company intends to use a data storage company to store resume information. Companies are also competing for talent, and more data offers a perception of being bigger than they are.Fake jobsIt’s not a job at all, and the company is fake. The saying is true—a bad tree doesn’t bear good fruit. Many fake companies will copy a real company’s website and alter their site’s spelling slightly enough to mislead potential candidates.Three of the most common red flagsSocial Engineering is the driver of success for the parasites listing the fake jobs you see. The illusion begins with their understanding of what stressed, anxious, and desperate job seekers will do: they’ll do anything to make a living.I list three common red flags here, but you’ll need the subscription to see the entire list:Unrealistic Compensation: Be skeptical of jobs offering exceptionally high pay for minimal work or salaries disproportionate to the role or your experience level. Always ask questions about why a salary is unusually generous for posted positions.Easy Apply” with High Pay: This combination is a classic scam indicator designed to attract many applicants quickly. It’s best to research the average salary before launching a job search to know the average for the state, region, and nation.Vague or Poorly Written Job Descriptions: Job ads lacking specific details, grammatical errors, or using generic, jumbled, or robotic language.Overcoming the fake job marketMany are telling you, “Don’t cry over what you can’t control.” While it hurts to hear what seems to be a lack of empathy, it’s true. We know good candidates are being overlooked. It’s unfortunate fake and ghost jobs are often confused with real opportunities.The modern job search has changed to where the work to separate the chaff from the weeds must come first:* You must own your results with clarity, endurance, and discernment in equal portions. The more specific you narrow your search, the more willing you are to research to ensure your value matches the employer’s need, and the opportunity is truly something they’re looking for.* You must approach each company with a clear understanding of how to meet their specific needs. I’m not talking about fixing your resume and LinkedIn profile here. You’re essentially the prescription to their job description.* While I don’t buy the whole “hires are 80% from referrals” narrative, I do believe connecting to employees of your ideal company who can provide insider information about a company (who can also confirm they’re hiring) is a powerful tool. You can increase your chances if the person has worked with you previously and can speak to your abilities.* Prepare for interviews diligently. This step can also help you avoid scam interviews. If the interviewer is not forthright in confirming people you’ll meet with, then RUN! Confirm what type of interview you’ll participate in, whether it’s with one interviewer or a panel, or if it’s a virtual interview. Determine if a recruiter is calling for a phone screen or an actual interview (note that phone screens are not considered interviews).No matter what phase it is, please don’t give your personal information until it feels right, you’ve done the research, and have no doubts the opportunity is legitimate. There are in-person job scams, too. The cautiousness is for your protection and well-being.Don’t forget about these resources…The following guides are now available to paid subscribers. To access all the platform’s content, consider getting a paid subscription. You can upgrade below:Finally…My friend Jon Shields runs the job board, Jobsearchdb. When you're looking for a job in a specific industry or career field, using job sites that focus on the types of jobs you're interested in can be a time-saver. The Job Search Database includes links to 1,000+ niche career sites, organized by category. Jobsearchdb is free. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

There will be victims of deepfake job interviews. Most job seekers don't prepare adequately for job interviews, and even worse, they often don't know what to expect. The lines are less blurred between the deepfake videos of last and the ones where technology enables anyone to create videos of seemingly real conversations between two people. The mouths and actions are entirely in sync.Similarly, AI chatbots can hold conversations to a certain extent, but when paired with deepfake video and AI voice technology, communication becomes even more seamless in delivery.Let's discuss how to spot them in real-time, and I'll offer some safety measures.1. AI-generated looks so realI bet you haven't seen Google's VEO 3. I provide an example to demonstrate how the AI-generated characters' lip movements perfectly synced with their facial expressions and voice inflections. Open-source deepfake videos are available to the public, allowing users to create fictional characters and scenarios similar to those found in movies.Have you visited your credit card company and used their AI-powered chatbot yet? They can respond to inquiries, answer questions, and provide follow-up information as needed. These are available to anyone.These open-source tool designs are simplified, allowing anyone without technical experience to create content, products, and services to enhance their quality of life, holistic learning and development, or personal purposes. All of them can run on your laptop or mobile phone.Anatomy of a Deepfake Interview ScamBad actors desire to move quickly to get your personal information. Unfortunately, trusting victims don't see anything wrong until it's too late. Here’s an important reminder of how thorough you should be: Get clear on what kind of interview you should expect. Will you be on Zoom or another platform? Is it a panel interview or with one person? Is that person the hiring manager or an HR professional? What is the name of the person? You have a right to be suspicious of Fake profileBad actors take an aggressive approach using a hijacked or duplicated LinkedIn profile. Hacked long-term unused but real profiles to imitate a recruiter or hiring manager. They bank on you not contacting the company directly or researching the role.Bad linkThe fake hiring manager sends a link to transact outside the platform, to a custom video-interview platform. In some scams, this hiring manager has gotten your personal information. In other cases, they are collecting information and won't ask real job interview questions to identify if you're the right candidate. The link sent was a phishing link. It accesses your computer, whether it's a mobile device or a laptop, and steals personal and financial information. Their links could also install spyware and malware on your device to track your web activity and login.Live session with a deepfake avatarThere are several layers to this "job interview." First, you receive a link to a bogus Zoom room or Microsoft Teams link. A slightly misspelled URL creates the illusion of being a company-proprietary site. You'll likely face an avatar with an AI-tuned voice with a response that's not human.They can respond to questions and even know and use your name. Most people sense something is "a little off" after their "interview." There is a script, so if you ask an unusual question, it will throw them off (similar to the AI chatbot).Stealing your dataThe meeting will result in them giving you a "job," but not without an attempt to get your personal and financial information. If you visit one of their suggested sites, you'll need to perform a scan to detect any malware or spyware may be loaded on your device. Any previously recorded audio can be used as a template to train AI models on your voice, which scammers can then use.How to detect a deepfakeKerry Tomlinson of Ampex News collects deepfake samples. In this short, she tells me a big part of the psychology of deepfakes is people want to believe they’re real:Here are some ways to detect and ways they can psych out victims:* A stolen picture is used as an avatar, only to animate its mouth with audio (likely stolen). It appears to be a still picture with a moving mouth.* People want to believe the opportunity is real because of anxiety, stress, or depression.* They cannot perform spontaneous requests, such as hand-to-face movements or a hand wave.* Lack of facial expressions and voice inflections. The voice sounds like a robot or a machine.4. Verify the interviewer, the company, and the employees using LinkedIn.This part can be tricky because fake hiring managers and recruiters will use real profiles to add to the illusion of legitimacy. Most of the time, bad actors use AI-generated bots at scale. They disappear and then reappear as another profile.Here are several quick checkpoints to verify the information someone gives you:* Fake email address by using a Gmail, Yahoo, or other vanity email address. The email domain may be a subtly misspelled word.* Use Google's reverse image search tool to determine if the profile belongs to the owner.* Check the profile owner's comments to find constantly repeated comments and posts.* See if they refer people to fake email addresses.* The fake profile often inflates their follower counts, claiming to have hundreds or thousands of followers, or it may have only one or two followers.* The profile owner's location is in an unheard-of country.You can check the company by using whois.com to see the site owner and the launch date. Use this resource to verify the validity of other site checkers.5. Your quick checklistResearch first* Google the recruiter’s name + “site:linkedin.com”* Search the company's careers page for your role* Check AI LLMs (ChatGPT, Perplexity)Inspect every link* Hover over the link* To reveal the actual URL to look for typos/quasi‑domains* Check to see if a less familiar company is a business entity* Do go to the mispelled link. Google link to see if it's flagged.Confirm via official channels* Email or call the company's HR address on their website: "Hi, I received an invite from XXX. Is this valid?"* Go to the company's website directory or Masthead* Find the company's recruiter to verify the listing* Check your network for people who work at the company (or find their 2nd connections or ties to ask)Multi‑factor proof* Ask for both a calendar invite and a call link through their ATS (Greenhouse, Workday, Lever)* Ask them to send you a LinkedIn invite* Be suspicious of scarcely filled-out LinkedIn profiles* Request additional proof (actual recruiters will go the extra mile to verify their authenticity and credentials).Limit what you share* Never submit sensitive documents (SSN, bank info) before an offer letter* Former federal workers should never share their long-form resume with civilians.We must train our defenses to verify everyone and everything before responding to a job description or offer. One of the most effective defenses is the ability to apply critical thinking skills throughout the process. Do the research, verify each resource, clarify each obscure point, vet all answers, and provide direct answers to the questions you ask.New paid subscriber content.This is the first of a string of paid subscriber content for this summer. I created a simple toolkit to help you identify warning signs of a job scam. You can defend against any scam and avoid them in the future. You know, I’ve said before, all you need is one sign to RUN AND REPORT.Paid subscribers can access all content. If you want the list, consider purchasing one of our subscriptions. You can view all of the choices below: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

"Have you ever felt a rush of excitement upon receiving a job offer that seemed too good to be true?” Many college students will face this dilemma, especially new grads. I participated in a panel a year ago at St. Xavier’s University in Chicago. I was joined by several other panelists: Lauren Milligan, Dr. Vincent Alexander Davis, and moderator James Miller. The featured clip on this week’s episode focuses on job scams and how students must navigate them. On this panel, I recount how job scams have evolved from targeting older individuals with simple, email-based scams to more sophisticated methods that exploit technological advancements. Scammers now seek not just money but also valuable personal data, employing tactics such as creating fake websites and sending convincing emails that appear legitimate. I highlight cases like the security breach at Purdue University and the $ 25 million stolen from a company via deepfake video calls, demonstrating that scams can deceive even tech-savvy individuals. He advises vigilance, emphasizing that anyone, regardless of their technical knowledge, can fall victim to these scams. James and Lauren describe common scam tactics, such as demanding application fees or asking for equipment purchases from third parties, which legitimate companies never do. Lauren and I emphasize the importance of additional verification steps, such as reverse-searching recruiters’ profile pictures and verifying LinkedIn profiles for authenticity. Lauren underscores that legitimate job offers can come through LinkedIn or Indeed, but skepticism is necessary. I point out scammers are expert marketers, preying on job seekers’ desperation with attractive but fake offers. Vince reminisces about past scams done via newspaper ads, noting how modern scams are more complex to detect. He adopts a cautious approach of deleting and blocking suspicious communications, but acknowledges the importance of reporting these incidents.The discussion encourages leveraging personal networks as a safety mechanism, but advises remembering that even friends or family might fall for scams. Lauren and I recommend increasing awareness and asking many questions when something seems too good to be true, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and vigilance. Lauren concludes by quoting a Washington Post article, stressing that no one is too smart to get scammed, illustrating the relentless and evolving efforts scammers put into deceiving even the most careful individuals.FINALLY…I just published a new toolkit, “The Anti-Job Scam Toolkit: Know & Avoid These Risky Red Flags.” For those with paid subscription access, it’s free of charge. This toolkit includes a checklist of red flags that you can quickly review to help you identify potential issues in text, email, or LinkedIn posts. It’s one of many guides and tools to come to our community to help you grow your awareness and knowledge of job scams. To access these special offers, you’ll need to purchase a monthly subscription at a minimum. This helps me to continue working here on Substack. These resources will be updated, while others will be newly added. The Job Scam Report is a reader-supported publication. Please support my work, and consider becoming a paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Thanks for joining me on The Job Scam Report. Today, I opened up about a topic often left unspoken in the job search—fear—and how it quietly plays a role before someone even falls for a scam. Fear doesn’t just show up after the damage is done. It starts when someone’s been laid off a few times, faced long-term unemployment, or is struggling to pay bills. Fear leads to desperation, and desperation clouds judgment.Fear is the sword of our actions. We’re in a time where scammers prey on fear. They know people are anxious, exhausted, and trying to make ends meet. That’s why fake jobs with big salaries, unlimited PTO, and flexible schedules sound so tempting. It’s not just about greed—it’s about hope, survival, and fatigue.I’ve seen it over and over: job seekers apply to hundreds of listings, not realizing they’re giving personal data to people who want to exploit them. Scammers don’t just want a few hundred bucks—they want your identity, banking info, and data. That’s the real currency.Clarity can conquer fear and uncertainty.But here’s the good news—we can manage fear before it controls us. If we shift our mindset early, we reduce our vulnerability. We must research companies, understand how real recruiters operate, and build a solid network to help us spot red flags before they become regrets. Preparation is your best defense. You don’t need to chase every opportunity, especially if it sounds too good to be true.Conquering fear before the job search begins gives us clarity, discernment, and power. It helps us avoid mistakes costing more than money. This isn’t just about job scams—it’s about protecting your future. So let’s start with mindset and end with strategy.Three points to highlight:Fear starts before the scam – Layoff PTSD, unemployment fatigue, and financial pressure make job seekers vulnerable.Scammers want your data, not just your money. Identity theft is more profitable than a one-time theft.Preparation is the best defense – Research, realistic expectations, and a strong network are key to scam-proofing your job search.In another segment, my friend, Jack Kelly, Founder and CEO of The Compliance Search Group and Wecruitr.com, and Senior Forbes Career Contributor, and I discuss job scams. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn the episode of “The Jobs Scam Report” podcast, we discussed recent layoff trends, the associated rise in job scams, and strategies to avoid them. Jay Jones and Ashley Price Horton joined me to share insights on red flags, evolving scammer tactics, including deepfakes and AI-generated content, as well as best practices for job seekers, with an emphasis on cybersecurity.We also tried to highlight new security threats, the importance of effective password management, and the risks associated with sharing personal information.We also miss Russell Irby, who consistently shares his job scam findings and valuable HR perspectives as an HR leader. Show highlightsLayoffs, Scams & Job Market Trends* Major recent layoffs have been reported at Intel, Microsoft, and Lululemon; these layoffs create new opportunities for scammers to target job seekers.* Public sites, such as the WARN Act, layoff.com, and Reddit, are valuable resources for identifying upcoming layoffs and related scam activity.* Alumni groups of affected companies (e.g., Microsoft) have become essential channels for sharing insider information and avoiding scams.* Job seekers are advised to research thoroughly before applying, using forums such as Glassdoor and Reddit, and to be wary when accepting offers from recently downsized firms. * TheLayoff.com is a good resource for pre-layoff chatter and rumors. Red Flags & Evolving Scam Tactics* Classic scams are resurfacing, including fake recruiter messages and right-to-represent (RTR) email scams.* RTR is an opt-in process that allows a potential candidate to authorize a recruitment agency to represent them for a specific opportunity. * Empathy-based messaging is on the rise, with scammers leveraging current events (e.g., layoffs) to appear more credible.* Scammers are recycling old techniques, including using stolen images, fake websites, and exploiting the victim’s short-term memory.* Rise of “donation saboteurs” exploiting GoFundMe and similar platforms for scams.* Advice: Ignore, block, or delete suspicious contacts, and also publicly report and comment to warn others, thereby enhancing collective protection. Often, it’s best to ignore. Cybersecurity Best Practices for Job Seekers* Never reuse passwords; use unique, strong passwords for each account and change them every six months.* Use reputable password managers (e.g., Bitwarden), enable multi-factor authentication, and secure primary email with a unique password.* Avoid including sensitive information (e.g., home address) on your resume unless it is essential. Government job applications are exceptions and require accuracy.* When companies require an address in an online form, consider using a P.O. Box or a local address, unless you are applying for a federal role.* Be aware of the dangers from fake federal resume writers, who may solicit sensitive personal information under false pretenses. While traditional resumes contain a vast history, new federal resumes now average two pages. Don’t send anyone your traditional resume. * Use a VOIP number for job search applications and avoid unnecessary disclosure of personal data. Stop including your physical address and use a dedicated Gmail account for job search-related communications. Deepfakes, AI, and Advanced Scam Technology* Deepfake technology is rapidly advancing and being exploited by scammers to create compelling fake interviews, videos, and social media content.* Recent examples include AI-generated interviewees and altered images evade reverse image searches.* Job seekers and professionals are advised to verify the authenticity of digital communications and videos, as scams are expected to become increasingly sophisticated.Community & Platform-Specific Threats* LinkedIn and other social networks are inundated with fake profiles, many of them premium and aged, making detection and removal difficult.* LinkedIn is likely struggling to keep up with removing accounts from bad actors who are creating AI-generated fake profiles at an alarming rate. * Even verified and established accounts can be hacked or mimicked to perpetrate scams.* Companies and recruiters are encouraged to bring more attention to this issue, as fake recruiting affects both candidates and corporate reputations. We do see some recruiters making the effort to warn LinkedIn users when they find accounts imitating themselves or their company.* Panelists urge continuous vigilance and reporting to both platforms and broader networks. Word-of-mouth to the public appears to be the fastest method for warning the LinkedIn community about fake accounts. Announcements & Upcoming Events* Ashley is working towards securing $3 million in job offers for her clients by the end of July, sharing opportunities and success stories on LinkedIn.* Jay, who is presenting scam avoidance strategies in a July talk with B Wise, has launched a new podcast and newsletter with over 2,000 subscribers.* Mark to release new content on scam avoidance and announce future projects as details become public.Decisions* Emphasis on Public Reporting and Education — Panelists agree that actively reporting and publicizing scams is more effective than simply blocking them, as it collectively improves awareness and prevention.Open Questions / Follow-Ups* How universally will the federal two-page resume rule be applied across agencies, and what is the official implementation timeline?* Continue monitoring the effectiveness of Google’s and other image and search tools for detecting altered scammer images.* Await further details and public announcements about Mark’s confidential projects.Watch the replay:The Job Scam Report is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. You can also donate any amount as a way to support this work if the value has been beneficial to you. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In today’s episode, I am featuring Lance Spitzner,  Workforce of Cybersecurity at SANS Institute and a board member of the National Cybersecurity Alliance. Highlights of our discussion:* Key points include the importance of vigilance, verifying information, and recognizing red flags such as unsolicited offers and requests for personal info or payments. * Scammers may aim to steal money or personal data, often using emotion-based tactics to target desperate job seekers. * Organized crime groups and state-sponsored actors have increased the sophistication of scams. * Technological advances, including artificial intelligence (AI), enable scammers to operate on a larger scale; * The fundamental red flags and indicators of scams remain consistent.Careers that will stand the test of timeThis chart is from a Hostinger chart, which I thought was interesting. These are careers likely to withstand the onslaught of Artificial Intelligence. This does not mean it won’t use it. On the contrary, AI will enable them to scale their work products. Nothing to glean other than you being informed about a potential pivot, or a way to add value to those professions. See the complete study. It’s a Google Doc, and it’s organized into four categories. Finally…Catch the replay of yesterday’s LinkedIn Live below. Next week, I'll publish the show for podcast listeners and show notes. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

We’re in a job market where fake and real jobs are listed on the same job boards, with few differences in the job descriptions. Job seekers don’t have to go to a job site to land fake jobs. Unsuspecting job seekers have gone to fake job sites and not applied. They are still targeted because fake sites will install malware and spyware. In this episode, I discuss several tools job seekers can use to check any website to see if it’s legitimate. You’ll be ready to check any website provided to you via text message, email, or referral. By the way, check the site to see if someone you know referred you (they might pass it on because someone recommended it to them). How do fake sites deceive you?Fake job sites scrape information from real ones to fool visitors into thinking they should apply there. The illusion of authenticity lures victims into forking out and even investing upfront to acquire equipment for a seemingly well-paying job. If the visitor doesn’t click on the attachment (which may also contain spyware or malware) and instead visits the site, they will be asked to fill out a fake application, providing the fake company with their personal information. As I always say, scammers “get you before they got you.” How to use domain verification site tools. The fake recruiter who approaches you in any communication will expect you to check them out, so you would think. But, many are looking for the easiest humans to hack as possible. By using the tools below, you will have a competitive advantage. Some will ignore messages of a “dream job” because they don’t come by being discovered through “online recruiters recommended you” or “your profile is perfect.” Others are in a place of dire need to pay bills, so they’re willing to take a chance to pursue a seemingly real opportunity. Any mention of credentials should be confirmed before your curiosity gets the better of you.The tools below will help you:* Check any site anyone offers as a way to apply for a job.* Check the fake recruiter’s word who says they work for a long-standing company while referring you to a site. * If it’s new, it’s suspect. * If the owner is not the company, it’s suspect. * If it’s less than two years, it deserves skepticism, especially if the charlatan says they’ve been with them for several years.I recommend you use a combination of these tools. Don’t use them if you already have doubts. Even if someone has credentials but exhibits “scammy behavior,” it’s still not worth pursuing. Consider these research methods:* Combine Tools: Use Whois, OpenCorporates, and Hunter.io to verify a company, its website, and its personnel.* Red Flag Pattern: If a domain is * Trust, But Verify: Even if it looks legitimate, always cross-check using two to three tools.When I wrote about the “Fake Job Market” a few weeks ago, I meant it literally, not as clickbait. Traps made out of fake jobs are landing in job seekers’ laps. People naturally want the best-paying job with the most amenities, a high salary, personal time off, and the promise of working remotely. Here’s a list of tools and resources (both technical and investigative) that can help job seekers verify the legitimacy of companies, websites, recruiters, and job offers, beyond what Whois.com provides. These are categorized by purpose and usefulness: Website & Domain Verification* Whois Lookup (ICANN)* Official ICANN WHOIS tool.* Shows domain registration date, registrar, and ownership data (unless privacy protected).* Helps flag suspicious domains recently registered.* DomainTools* Offers WHOIS history, DNS changes, and hosting info.* Useful for checking if a domain changed hands or was recently created.* ScamAdviser* Provides a trust score for websites.* Analyzes domain age, owner location, and user reviews.* URLVoid* Checks a domain or IP against multiple security databases.* Great for flagging malicious or suspicious websites.* MXToolbox* Check email domain configurations (e.g., SPF, DKIM) to verify if an email is spoofed.* Useful for recruiter emails that appear to be from a legitimate company.Company Legitimacy & Business Registrations* OpenCorporates* The world’s largest open database of companies.* Search business registration records by name, jurisdiction, or officer.* Better Business Bureau (BBB)* Look up complaints and reviews of U.S. and Canadian businesses.* Glassdoor* Check employee reviews of companies.* Suspicious patterns (all 5-star or all negative reviews, similar writing style) can hint at fake listings.* LinkedIn Company Pages* Real companies have employees connected to the page.* A fake company may have zero employees or generic logos/content.Recruiter and Hiring Manager Verification* Pipl (Paid)* Deep web people search.* Can verify if the person’s name, email, and job title match public records or social profiles.* Email Hippo* Check if an email address is valid and from a trusted domain.* Helps verify recruiter emails.* Hunter.io* Finds legitimate corporate email patterns (e.g., [email protected]).* Helps spot fake recruiter emails that don’t match the pattern.* Clearbit Connect (Gmail plugin)* Tells you who owns an email domain and other associated company data.Scam Reporting & Awareness* BBB Scam Tracker* See and report job scams in the U.S.* Suitable for referencing scam trends and company names.* JobScamAlert.com* Tracks known fake employers and job scams.* Reddit r/scams* Real-time discussions about active scam attempts, often including job scams.* Cybercrime Support Network - Fraud Support* Provides victim support and links to report various types of scams.Bonus: AI-Powered Scam Detection Tools* Google Safe Browsing* See if a website has been flagged for phishing or malware.* Trend Micro Site Safety Checker* Evaluates if a URL is safe or part of a known scam network.* ZeuS Tracker* Blacklist of IPs and domains involved in financial scams (very technical, but solid for deeper research).Some additional thoughts.I need career service professionals to listen up. A dog doesn't do what you won't train them to do. It automatically won't urinate outside or on a grid in a toilet, unless you train it to do so. As much as a few of us scream from the mountaintops, along with other people, job seekers, and career services professionals, safety is not a consideration. Career services professionals, please hang with me here. It's not new. But every company touting the "perfect job narrative" deserves an investigation. I can't say whether this coach was training their people or not, but the mountaintop message volume fades, but it's the people who heard and agreed it needs to be repeated by the hearers. Vet. Research. Slow your roll. Proceed with caution.We also train the dog to trust the setup works. So when it's on its own, it knows where to go and what to do. Even under stress, the training is effective (most of the time). I hope job seekers who are paying for coaching are receiving the quality guidance they need to protect themselves, in addition to how to job search. Yes, your clients are responsible for their safety, but when their bank account is drained due to a job scam, how will they pay you?Don't you see teaching them to remain safe is an investment in getting the outcome you help them with?I also understand no plan is foolproof, and the grid can slide off the toilet, and the dog may decide to do something else. Job seekers do it all of the time, but if you can do your part, then they can adapt based on your training. We're all adapting. We have no choice but to provide or receive help. It never appears as we imagine. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

People who are most vulnerable to job scams often lack awareness and knowledge, and underestimate their potential to be duped by scammers. I’m glad you are reading this, which means you’re trying to stay sharp, marketable, and vigilant. I hope you share this with your coworkers, friends, family, and network. This is a fight to protect your personal information and assets.Today’s episode and article address the myths surrounding job scams. Today’s job market is splintered. An example is if you divide the job market into public and private sectors, the public sector faces a greater possibility of mass layoffs. The 22,000 already laid off are reportedly a fraction of the proposed layoffs, which are subject to change according to current court submissions and are now headed to the Supreme Court for review. There are always parts of the job market are more vulnerable than others, and scammers know the industries are subject to slow hiring and mass layoffs. Let’s bust the myths below:1. If a job offer comes from a well-known company, it should be legitimate.Aside from knowing companies don’t offer jobs to people they’ve never formally interviewed and verified, first, check to see if the company is legitimate. Check out to see if the link is legit using whois.com. They will display the company’s owner and the year it was established, as well as when it’s set to expire. Big companies would never use Gmail to conduct any business, including hiring. 2. The recruiter needs your banking information upfront to set up your payments in time for you to start.Recruiters do not ask for your banking information. Most of them are not involved in payroll. Why would they ask for your personal banking information if they are not sure they would hire you, yet? 3. You can trust the big job sites like LinkedIn or Indeed!Scammers have successfully posted fake job listings in the names of actual companies and hiring managers, or a fictitious name. To avoid applying to a phony company, visit the company’s official job website to ensure the same job is posted and submit your application there. 4. Scams only happen to those who are desperate or inexperienced job seekers.Many intelligent, tech-savvy, and conscientious people have been scammed more than once. If you’re desperate, it’s more challenging because the fake job offers appear real, and it’s appealing if you’re financially vulnerable.5. Scams are often easy to spot due to spelling or grammatical mistakes.Many people can catch grammar and spelling errors if they saturate the text. Yes, professional communication should be error-free. It’s a red flag if there are subtle spelling errors in the URL ([email protected]) or company name. 6. If they know my resume, it must be real.You should always ask how they would get your resume, especially if you don’t have it publicly displayed. Some will say online recruiters recommended your resume, but the punchline is simple: Recruiters don’t work that way. It’s possible they found it on an online job board, but if you haven’t updated it in years, would it make sense to you?7. Government jobs are scam-proof.Currently, there is a surge of government job scams infiltrating email and text communications. Resumes for government employment are required to include the entire work history on the document. Since scammers are primarily interested in obtaining your personal information, they often use fake resumes and career services to encourage you to send your current federal resume for analysis and write you a new one, ultimately to use it for future schemes. 8. I’m safe because I don’t apply for shady jobs.These are famous last words for those who take needed vigilance lightly or for granted. The scams aren’t immediately evident. Scammers use very persuasive language to appeal to victims based on their current emotional state. No one is safe from an appealing job offer if they are experiencing long-term unemployment or underemployment.9. I didn’t give them money, so I’m safe. The scammer wants your personal information and any other personally identifiable data they can get. They can use this information for years to come. They can get it in several ways:* If you have gone to their fake employment site, they could install spyware to see and scrape passwords* If you gave them any financial or banking information or passwords for ACH transfers.* Suppose you gave them your Social Security Number (SSN). Even if you provided your last four digits of your SSN, it makes you vulnerable. 10. I’ll know it’s a scam if they ask weird questions. Depending on your definition of ‘weird questions,’ victims reported they’ve experienced thorough questioning. On the other hand, stop the interviewer when they ask evasive personal information at the beginning.11. Scams only target online job seekers.In-person scams are where it all begins, and continue to be prevalent. Many of them start online, but when a scammer obtains the necessary information, they will direct them to abandoned buildings or fake addresses. The victim has already surrendered their trust because of the promise of an in-person interview. 12. If I block or ignore them, that’s the end of it.Context is everything, so let’s dig deeper. When you block and report on one channel of communication, it doesn’t mean it applies to all. It’s great you blocked the fake text job offer, but if you’re on LinkedIn, they’re also attempting to use fake job offers there through a fake account. And if you blocked and reported a LinkedIn account, it doesn’t mean they won’t have other accounts they use to promote their fake jobs. Please consider the paid subscription version.Add these Substacks for helpful job search advice!The Job Hopper: The Art of Finding Work:Dorothy Dalton: Future Perfect, Work and CareersLinkedIn Locked:Random Recruiter: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to “The Job Scam Report” podcast. There are many first-time listeners, so welcome. I am grateful that you’re listening, as you wish to job search safely and strategically. Subscribe and you’ll find the advice will help you secure your personal information and find work. If you’re not looking, there are some solid job search tips available here and on the mothership website, The Voice of Job Seekers. IN THE NEWS…Jeanine Skowronski, a well-known national journalist and editor, featured my job scam advice in her popular “Money As If” newsletter. I hope you’ll subscribe to her most excellent newsletter, as she is doing great work in the money advice she offers. Podcast notes, and then some. In this week’s podcast, I review some tips I’ve learned from TikTok creators and some older ones to keep the fire stoked. I will link to the creators so you can visit their sites and view their work:* ChatGPT can be your friend in helping you avoid becoming a victim of a job scam. Here’s an instance where a TikTok creator received 50 reasons why the communication he received was a scam after inputting the text screenshot into ChatGPT.* When anyone, for any reason, wants only the last four numbers of your Social Security Number (SSN), run! Scammers are trying to verify as much as they can to obtain new information. Look what happened to this creator when she applied for an online job. * Scams aren’t just virtual. Scammers will direct you to unusual physical locations as part of their schemes to conduct fake business transactions.* I’m happy people are sharing how they are combating and avoiding job scams. Rarely does anyone mention, after they’ve applied to a fake job, what they’re doing to make sure malware or spyware isn’t installed on their computer. Run the security suite!* The perfect job is a scam when a job ad or description claims to be something it is not, such as “This is someone’s dream job.” It’s similar to telling someone, “You’re the most beautiful…” You shouldn’t entertain exaggerated claims without substantial information, and they should be treated with suspicion.* Scammers want your money now! They can’t wait for you to be desperate enough to expedite the process. Nobody is denied. It’s like a stranger asking you to marry them today. A real job interview doesn’t require a monetary transaction from the candidate.* It’s not just fake profiles creating havoc on social media, and specifically on LinkedIn. Scammers will contact their victim via text, use the name of a real recruiter or hiring manager (knowing you’ll look them up on LinkedIn), and give some excuse to bypass their standard hiring process due to exceptional circumstances.* Watch for poor grammar, spelling errors, and unprofessional language in emails or messages. Even if they are impersonating a large company, scammers are often careless.* Don’t accept payment methods such as cryptocurrency, gift cards, or money transfers. Legitimate companies typically use standard payment methods, such as direct deposit or checks. Scammers love it because of its global speed of transactions, as well as its anonymity and pseudonymity, which facilitate transactions and data collection. (Kychub, 2025 & Cloudwards, 2025)* Random job offers are often unrealistic, especially when they lack context, a clear framework, an interview process, or mutual discussions to assess fit and agree on job expectations.* If a company requires you to purchase equipment upfront, even if they promise reimbursement, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate companies provide their employees with the necessary tools and resources to support their work (University of Illinois, 2025). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

HireClick experienced a data breach, exposing approximately 5.7 million resumes to scammers, which could potentially enable identity theft and phishing. Job seekers should protect their personal information when applying for jobs. Most people don’t realize how vulnerable their privacy is until it has been compromised. In this episode, I discuss HireClick and what a data breach could teach us about privacy. It’s vital to remain safe online if job seekers (and everyone else) treat their personal information as an asset. Treat it more like a property, an investment that grows at an eight percent yearly rate, or as a family heirloom. Here are a few of my points:* The HireClick breach was discovered after it occurred in February 2025, after CyberNews’ research.* “The leaked files exposed sensitive and private information of job seekers, mainly resumes.”* Attackers could leverage information to offer fake jobs, “asking candidates to verify their identity with scabs if IDs, social security numbers, or even banking info to set up direct deposit. * Job seekers must stop giving too much information, such as a physical address, personal email address, two phone numbers, etc. * I voiced my concern that companies do not offer choices for information used for employment only, selling data, newsletters, email offerings, etc. Past employment data breaches.We can learn from past employment breaches to show how frequently and easily imposters use personal information to commit scams. Job seekers must be more strategic than ever when applying for jobs. Here is a timeline of significant employment-related data breaches from 2020 to 2025:2020Automation Personnel Services (APS) BreachIn 2020, APS experienced a data breach exposing sensitive information such as Social Security numbers and bank details. A $1.375 million settlement was reached, allowing affected individuals to claim up to $5,000 with proper documentation. Wikipedia+2The US Sun+2The Times+22023* MOVEit Data BreachA vulnerability in the MOVEit file transfer software was exploited by the CL0P ransomware group, compromising data from over 2,700 organizations and affecting approximately 93.3 million individuals. The breach impacted various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and government. Wikipedia* Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) BreachIn March 2023, a former CFPB employee transferred confidential information of approximately 256,000 consumers and 45 financial institutions to their email account. The breach involved personally identifiable information and transaction-specific account numbers. Wikipedia 2024* National Public Data BreachNational Public Data, a data broker specializing in employee background checks, suffered a massive breach impacting 2.9 billion records, including Social Security numbers. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on October 2, 2024. Wikipedia* BBC Pension Scheme BreachThe BBC reported a data breach exposing personal details of over 25,000 current and former staff members, including names, addresses, and national insurance numbers. Bank details and health information were not compromised. The Times2025* Legal Aid Agency (UK) BreachIn April 2025, the UK's Legal Aid Agency experienced a cyberattack compromising approximately 2.1 million records, including addresses, birth dates, criminal history, employment status, and financial records dating back 15 years. The breach affected both legal aid recipients and their lawyers. The Sun+3AP News+3Financial Times+3* Employment Screening Provider BreachIn February 2025, an employment screening provider reported a data breach affecting 3.3 million individuals. The exposed information included names, Social Security numbers, driver's licenses, and financial account details. HR Dive+1The US Sun+1* Holt Group BreachIn December 2024, Holt Group suffered a data breach attributed to the cybercriminal group Cactus, exposing personal information of 12,455 former employees and others. The stolen data included names, Social Security numbers, and financial details. San Antonio Express-NewsThese incidents highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity measures in protecting sensitive employment-related data. This list doesn’t include the “Resumelooters” data breach reported in February 2024 or the European employment data breach reported earlier this month. Common elements that seem to fitI’m carefully reading this section because I used Perplexity's AI to research similarities in employment data breaches. I sought a deeper understanding of how job seekers can better protect themselves when applying through employment sites. The short answer is to apply through the company websites, but they also have data breaches. Applicants must be more selective in choosing safer sites and companies that value privacy. I know it sounds like extra work, but personal information is a valuable asset. Everyone should treat it like gold and guard its use as much as possible.Here are three commonalities employment data breaches have (again, worth looking into):Employee errorMistakes are made in the workplace, such as sending sensitive information to the wrong party, using hackable passwords, or mishandling physical files. Disgruntled employees who maliciously intend harm, or careless employees who lack judgment, will handle essential data. Phishing and smishing attacksLike job scams, imposters of employees use slick schemes to fool employees into giving them access to the company’s proprietary information or credentials to steal millions or corrupt systems.Social EngineeringCatching an employee under stress or emotionally is a company vulnerability. Many times, their lack of judgment, awareness, or training creates opportunities for imposters. Breaches often occur with personal identification documentation, payroll data, or access to HR records. Again, my goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of breaches and how they happen, which will help you design a safer job search. First, it starts with strategy, then safety. One cannot sustain itself without the other. By having the right mindset, you can be more efficient and safer. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Today marks the platform's first anniversary. While most of the content is about job scams, we proudly present relevant job search advice. When we discuss the future of work, navigating the job scam landscape safely is as important as modern job search strategies. Job scams are as old as job applications, resumes, and cover letters. What makes the last three years different is technology is accessible to anyone, delivering content and job opportunities. Bad actors have always used “Social Engineering” and technology to find vulnerable victims to steal personal information. Reminders of “how to avoid job scams” are still vitalThe HR Honey Badger, Russell Irby, commented he’s seen people fall victim to old schemes. I’ve seen it, too, and have not hesitated to recap and remind people last year’s advice is as relevant now as it was two years ago. This week’s episode reminds us of some of the basics of combating job scams. The best defense is always awareness, knowledge, and the recognition of red flags. I bring up an old survey I covered to remind us of our commitment to protect ourselves, our job search efforts, and our families and communities. Here’s the survey from Upwind.io. Here are some of the highlights: 1. Job Scams and AI: The rise of job scams is aided by advancements in AI technology, which is the same technology everyone has at their fingertips. Scammers use AI to create realistic and targeted schemes at scale. 2. Protection of Personal Information: Protect your personal information during the job search and be choosy about where you apply. Lock your credit information and use unique email addresses and phone numbers for job applications exclusive to your job search. 3. Awareness and Vigilance: Be vigilant and aware of the signs of job scams, such as suspicious communications or unusual requests for personal information. One red flag is one sign too many to disengage from bad actors pretending to be hiring officials to trust. 4. Survey Statistics: Various statistics from Upwind highlight the increasing worries about AI-driven scams and Americans' actual experiences of personal data breaches. It’s a view from 1200 Americans, 87% have been at least confronted with fake job opportunities. 61% have experienced a data breach. 5. Ethical Recruitment Practices: Be cautious when dealing with ethical recruiters and hiring managers, even when they seem legitimate but exhibit red flags. “Scammy behavior” from any professional is not worth engaging. Where can you find the “The Job Scam Report” podcast?Apple Music PodcastsSpotifyYouTube (You can download from YouTube Music Podcasts)Substack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this short podcast episode, I explain how a scammer tried to lure one of our LinkedIn Live participants into resume writing services. Bad actors pull out all the stops, and you must carry the same energy. Their efforts are increasing as layoffs and job separations intensify. Our podcast episode during LinkedIn Live experienced this in a subtle but bodacious way. It’s like a pest flying in your face, waiting to swat it.Referrals are becoming increasingly common. One user may recommend a service offering the Gmail address of a fake career services professional. It’s not uncommon for a random social media user to recommend someone else who said they helped them. Someone not in my network viewed my update about my lost Facebook page. They referred me to someone’s Instagram page, which was weird, and they copied someone’s content to fill theirs. Surprisingly, there's been a surge lately. Why now? Oh yeah, the job market is in a chokehold of sorts. The vigilance job seekers need now has to expand. You’ll need to be more vigilant than ever. Bad actors know the soft spots. I know among the bad actors are incompetent career services providers who are trying to serve and help. At least within their incompetence and “scammy behavior,” they have a LinkedIn profile and social equity. While their sincerity is noted, they’re not part of this conversation. These bad actors plot to steal your personal information, not serve a bad product. At the show's beginning, I mentioned the possibility bad actors were listening and would show up in the chat. I was half-way kidding when I said it, but it happened. I show examples in the video of how this particular one showed up, off the radar. I monitor the chat during the live stream. I can see most comments, except certain replies from LinkedIn users who are not in my network. This parasite offered phony services to a participant whose comments I could see, but not their reply. I say their comment after the show, going through the comments, following every comment I could. Well played, parasite. Well played. Rules of disengagementI’ve constantly repeated in the last couple of months: ONE RED FLAG IS ENOUGH TO DISENGAGE COMMUNICATION.It’s enough to report and block them. Don’t visit their links, don’t entertain their suggestions, or buy into their half-baked, somewhat empathetic responses.Here are five signs to identify a referring parasite:* They appear randomly. Out of nowhere, they are being helpful. Many times, it’s not because you need a resume. It could be your “Open-To-Work” badge, your venting about the lack of job search success, frustrations, or your presence in the thread.* Third connection or more. The parasite is not part of your social network. Their profile is AI-generated, and responses are scripted and automated.* All replies are the same. They’re all the same when you search their profile and the comments. They recommend the same service provider even when the thread conversation is unrelated.* They have multiple profiles with similar features. Parasites use AI to generate numerous accounts. There are many, but LinkedIn seemingly can’t keep up with them or has the technology to auto-locate them. The various accounts may have similar names or different headlines. They have copied it from another profile, and likely, it’s someone’s actual profile. Sometimes, like in this episode, the fake profile’s owner deleted their profile.* Their photo, or lack thereof, is everything you need to know. If you copy the photo, save it, and then use Google image search, it will often come up with the owner of the photo. It may not be on the same social network, but it’s evident if the owner has other profiles with substantive content.Let me know if you have experienced fake career services or have recommended someone to you. What do you think of this episode? Feel free to comment or ask questions. I love to help. Don’t forget to subscribe! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

It’s wild to experience as a job seeker in 2025, a “fake job market” can hinder your reach to actual hiring employers. You are searching for opportunities in a landmine of fake employers, hiring managers, recruiters, career services professionals, and referrers. This is a critical time in the modern job search, where it’s essential to verify the authenticity of anyone claiming to offer assistance. To help me unravel some of the mystery around fake jobs, profiles, and advice, I have Ashley Price-Horton, Jay Jones, and Russell Irby.I welcome your feedback on this episode on LinkedIn or through comments on this Substack post. Here are some of the highlights and takeaways from the show: Current Job Market Challenges* The graduating classes of 2025 are entering a challenging job market, characterized by:* The presence of a “Fake Job Market” that’s hidden in plain sight.* Increased job scams and fake opportunities (even more than last year). * There is a demanding need for both employers and job seekers to verify the authenticity. Possibly, everyone working has a fake coworker. * The panel offered advice to job seekers on how to protect themselves, like checking the legitimacy of job listings by researching companies on platforms such as Glassdoor and Reddit, and being cautious about unsolicited job offers. They also emphasize the importance of vetting emails and websites to identify phishing attempts and other fraudulent job advertisements.* The most vulnerable individuals become victims because they are unprepared for the emotional stress and endurance required in today’s job search. Key Issues Discussed* Fake Job Market:* Described as the worst ever, maybe worse than the pandemic of 2020. * New graduates face challenges in distinguishing between legitimate and fraudulent job opportunities.* Job scams are prevalent on LinkedIn through fake employer and recruiter profiles. * LinkedIn appears non-proactive purposely. * Phony job ads are becoming increasingly indistinguishable from real ones. * Bad actors are leveraging “Social Engineering” and AI at scale. * Employers are challenged 1000s of applications in an hour.* Challenges for Job Seekers:* The Importance of Scrutinizing Job Offers and Opportunities.* Verifying both employers’ and workers’ legitimacy is a thing of the past, dating back to months ago, when scammers were using fake worker IDs to bypass company gatekeepers. * Job seekers are encouraged to be more vigilant and cautious than ever. Community Feedback:* Here are some of the comments from the LinkedIn Live participants:* Christopher J.D. Thornton suggests in-person meetings to verify authenticity* James Rose praises the professionalism of the podcast.* Karen Pesznecker, PHR, asked, “Do you know of any proactive solutions to avoid even talking with fraudulent candidates?”* Joyce Kennedy, “There are many profiles on LinkedIn that have been hacked and taken over by a scammer, too, unfortunately.I hope you find this episode helpful, thanks to the tools and resources provided. Ashley, Jay, Russell, and I hope you’ll share your stories and questions on job scams through our LinkedIn profiles (see our names above for the links). Now that we’re on Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube, please rate our show and/or comment so our visibility increases. We want to help as many as possible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Remember “Search Engine Optimization” and how it helps businesses and people get found online? It’s keyword—or key phrase-driven, and those who master it enhance and increase authority, traffic, or notoriety.“Search Everywhere Optimization” is a valuable discussion to explore how job seekers can craft an online presence to get noticed, possibly referred, or secure job opportunities uniquely suited to them.Allow me to pontificate.The job search game has changed. As a job seeker, you must practice "Search Everywhere Optimization." You'll be able to craft your online presence safely without sharing your personal information. You can ride the AI train if you missed creating a Google-ized personal brand.Google is still critical to be found, but you might be behind if you don't know what AI-generated search reveals about you. It's early and a good time to consider what's said about you. If you think you don't have any presence, think again.Where am I going with this? "Search Everywhere Optimization" is the slight edge giving you a competitive advantage in securing opportunities. But with the job scam pandemic, bad actors could leverage your name, image, and likeness. If you're found in places you've never been, beware.The speed and presentation of AI-driven information are transforming the job search process. Recruiters and employers will not have to search multiple online platforms to find you.The punchline is scammers will know a lot about you without searching in different online spaces.I have more to say in this audio version of the podcast. To view the video, please visit my YouTube page. We’re now on Apple Music Podcasts and Spotify!I would love to know your thoughts. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

The cast of “The Job Scam Report” had another great show on our “LinkedIn Live” as we provided advice on job scams, job search, and additional resources to earn money. Many of our audience were recently laid off or anticipate layoffs from the federal government and their industry landscape of announcements of layoffs. I update my LinkedIn profile 2-3 times weekly. If you want to stay closely updated on job scam prevention and job search strategies, follow my profile:Follow me on LinkedIn! Enjoy the podcast. The rebroadcast is just as compelling and informative (at least, that’s my opinion) as the “live” presentation. You can catch the video on YouTube. You can catch the LinkedIn Live here. 1. More layoffs coming: We emphasized the timeliness of this show in light of recent federal layoffs and their impact on increasing job scams. 2. Federal layoffs create fertile ground for job scams. With probationary employees being laid off en masse, scammers are exploiting the situation, targeting vulnerable ex-federal employees who are desperate to find new employment. 3. LinkedIn and Job Scams: Ashley and Jay emphasized the prevalence of scams on LinkedIn. Fake profiles are still prevalent, and scammers send unsolicited messages and exploit job seekers' desperation.  4. Safe Job Search Practices: The panel provided concrete advice for verifying job opportunities and recruiters. Use Whois.com to check the legitimacy of companies. Avoid unsolicited PDF documents that could contain malware, and ensure that job listings are cross-referenced with official company websites and postings. 5. Mitigating Risks: They discussed additional strategies to mitigate risks, such as using gift cards or secure cards for payments to protect personal banking information, enabling two-factor authentication for emails, and being cautious of scammy recruitment behaviors. Jay also suggested that LinkedIn's incognito mode can help job seekers research recruiters without revealing their activity to potential scammers. 6. LinkedIn Improvements: The conversation also discussed desired improvements to LinkedIn’s platform to protect users better. Key suggestions included faster response times for scam reports, blocking suspicious pages, and better verification processes for job postings to ensure their legitimacy. 7. Resources for Laid-Off Employees: Ashley shared multiple resources for generating income while job searching. She recommended platforms like UserTesting, YouTest, iSecretShop, and Work At Home Adventures for freelance and contract work. These platforms offer opportunities to undertake usability tests, mystery shopping, and other tasks to earn supplemental income remotely. 8. Mental Health and Layoff PTSD: Jay introduced the concept of layoff PTSD, which affects individuals' mental health and job search efficacy post-layoff. He stressed the importance of having a support system and maintaining a positive mindset. It was suggested that those laid off should avoid consuming too much negative news and instead focus on actionable steps and connecting with a supportive community. Ashley shared these sites in the comments section on LinkedIn as additional resources to check out to earn income while job searching:https://utest.com/https://wahadventures.com/https://www.usertesting.com/https://isecretshop.com/We will continue to facilitate a commitment to providing valuable information and support to job seekers. Navigating the problematic landscape of layoffs and job scams requires the vigilance of job scams and the application of smart job search strategies. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Many of my readers work in the federal government, so I feel compelled to help. This week, I’m reverse engineering my method to help everyone avoid job scams from the scammer's perspective. I hope to bring it with clarity and empathy while communicating the harsh reality of already seeing scammers target unemployed job seekers. Before I begin, note I attached the audio podcast from last week to this week’s edition. I failed to include it in last week’s edition, so if you want to view the highlight notes, check last week’s newsletter here. If you are a current federal employee and think something I said is incorrect, please feel free to comment on the article so everyone is informed. I hope this article will be as much a discussion as it is informative so everyone can benefit and grow in awareness and knowledge. Just to remind you, I regularly publish content about job search and job scams on LinkedIn a few times a week. Follow or connect with me to get job scam development and how to navigate the job market. The White House announced that 2.6 million remote federal workers will be offered a paid eight-month resignation package if they voluntarily resign. Otherwise, they will be part of a mass downsizing effort to shrink government spending.If 300,000 federal employees face layoffs this year, many will likely enter the job market, making them prime targets for job scams.Here are 10 narratives scammers can put before them and how job scams may affect them:1. Government Experience as Bait for ScammersScammers could try offering "consulting" or "government contracting" jobs requiring upfront fees or sensitive information. They may ask for your federal resume, security clearance credentials, or anything proving your clearance. Making your information available to scammers enables them to create a fake profile to ruin your professional reputation.2. Fake Security Clearance OpportunitiesThere is a risk of fraudulent job postings requiring applicants to "verify" or "renew" security clearances through fake services that steal their identity or money, which is an assumed threat to national security. I don't expect the laid-off employees to fall for bogus schemes where renewing their clearances is easier or faster. However, long-term unemployment can trigger some irrational thinking about whether they should feel desperate, anxious, and exhausted.3. Exploiting Their Urgency to Find WorkScammers use fear and financial pressure to trick laid-off federal workers (employed or not) into paying for fake job placements, resume services, or fraudulent "priority hiring lists." Imagine seeing a job ad or email directed to those with security clearances, offering flexibility and generous pay and avoiding a lengthy vetting hiring process. We all know the government doesn't work this way in these circumstances.4. Phantom Government Rehiring ProgramsInvestigating fake job offers claiming they will help former federal workers get rehired into new government roles for a fee can sound convincing. The scammer will pretend to be a consultant hired to streamline the process. The hook would be to offer to expedite the process if the victim pays processing fees upfront.5. Impersonating Federal ContractorsScammers will set up fake federal contractor websites, using real company names to lure ex-government workers into paying for job leads or onboarding fees. They will also impersonate federal workers or third-party consultants to lure victims into low-barrier entry.6. LinkedIn and USAJobs Impersonation ScamsFraudulent job postings and fake recruiter profiles targeting former government employees on professional job platforms could redirect them to a phony job site or position it as unique. The scammers will copy content similar to a valid government site with a URL of usajobss.net and ask for your complete job history.7. Targeting Specialized Skill SetsScammers create fake jobs tailored to federal workers' expertise (e.g., IT, intelligence, HR) to add legitimacy to their scams. They offer professional development or fake "how to get rehired by the federal government" courses. Conversely, the scammer will use praise by saying the victim has what's needed to teach others and offer a fake platform that the victim pays upfront to use to teach with promises of a high ROI.8. Bogus Early Retirement Investment ScamsFraudulent "financial advisors" will target laid-off federal workers with fake investment opportunities that promise quick returns on severance packages. They will claim to know you have enough to retire, and they can make the transition more manageable if you're willing to pay their advisory fee. Victims will also need to provide their personal and social security information.9. The Rise of AI-Generated Job ScamsScammers will use AI-generated job descriptions, recruiter chatbots, and deepfake interviews to defraud former federal employees. For instance, they can claim they weave AI into the hiring process to generate assessments, HR advice, and job applications, making the hiring process, including reference checks, seamless.10. Psychological Impact of Job Scams on Laid-Off Government WorkersJob scammers will take advantage of former federal workers' emotional and financial toll on people, including those who expected long-term government stability and are now vulnerable in the job market. It is vital to remain vigilant and start your job search immediately. Growing weary of fake jobs, prolonged interview processes, and employer indecisions doesn't take long.Please keep these scam safety tip basics in mind. I want to summarize this article and provide baseline training so you will not be lured into giving your money and personal information:* Don’t pay for security clearances. You know what the process looks like, and unless you hear change from a government official, don’t fall for it. * Government recruiters don’t use Gmail. It’s either .gov or .mil. * Identity monitoring services are valuable now. Your credit card company may offer them for free, so it’s worth taking advantage of them. However, don’t fall for fake companies providing this service. I trust the banks and significant Internet Security suites more than unproven, unknown independent companies. * Thoroughly vet recruiters, hiring managers, and people you don’t know who refer you to opportunities. * Your federal resume shouldn’t be your civilian resume. The civilian resume doesn’t require your 25-year history of jobs. * Use SAM.gov to vet any consulting company approaching you for opportunities. * Use whois.com to confirm the owner and date of a website. Finally…From a post I wrote on LinkedIn last week:Where there is a layoff surge, job scams are keeping up. RationalFX (1/30/25) published a 2024 study on tech layoffs. They aggregated layoff announcements sourced from U.S. WARN notices, the job portal TrueUp, TechCrunch, and the Layoffs.fyi's layoff tracker for the entirety of 2024.Here are a few of the highlights:The USA leads the world in tech layoffs: 157,950. In 2024, approximately 280,991 employees globally.Dell reduced its headcount by 18,500, Intel by 15,100, and Amazon by 14,968.2025 brings a spillover of layoffs with at least 12,000 employees globally.Job scams will only increase, and you should be prepared if you're in the tech sector. You can put your ear to the ground to hear of rumors and speculation or torture yourself with worry. The best choice is to start a job search. Every industry is subject to job scam infestation, targeting anxious, depressed, and fearful workers. Your mindset is an asset in combating scams. First, you must navigate the job market with knowledge, strategy, and safety. Accept the unknown as an obstacle to overcome. By understanding your industry's behavior and expectations, you can future-proof your career with certainty. You can consider other industries as possibilities to increase your opportunities by examining how your skills match jobs. I hope federal workers affected by the new policy will take action before all the bureaucracy clouds of smoke clear. The government has no plans to save you.Again, a proactive, thoughtful, strategic job search will buffer attractive, unrealistic job scam offers. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Job scams have "increased more than threefold from 2020 to 2023 and, in just the first half of 2024, topped $220 million," according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC, 12/12/24). The latest trend is gamifying job scams called task (or game) scams. Tasks are asked of the user to start for cash, but to complete the game, victims add money. Yep, it's the old pay-to-get-paid scheme, but gamified. People receive these via texts, emails, and ads. Consumer Affairs (CA, 12/12/24) reported yesterday these are related to app optimization or product boosting. Scammers lure victims with small payments and then ask them to invest their funds with a false promise of higher payouts. This is a new layer, but we've seen it before, where they commonly get victims to put skin in the game for a higher return. Consider this: ANY game not associated with a brand you recognize could collect your private data. LinkedIn and Facebook have games much safer than posts leading to an unfamiliar or unknown site. It’s your decision whether you do or don’t, but your private information may be collected for deviant use. PCMag published an article relevant to this topic. They tell you how to protect your private information. New Podcast EpisodeI just published the latest conversation about holiday job scams with Ashley, Jay, and me. I wrote a detailed article last week about it, but if you’d rather listen to it, it’s embedded at the top. I provided a cliff note version of the show below. Feel free to share it anywhere and everywhere. You might want to share a couple of the past shows as great references for anyone who wants to be educated about job scams:What You Need To Understand About Job ScamsHow To Spot a Fake LinkedIn Profile And Its Dangers Why Scams Increase During Holidays- The holiday season often leads to increased online kindness and lowered vigilance.- Scammers exploit this by targeting vulnerable job seekers.Types of Scams1. Fake Part-Time Jobs - Offers generous pay and flexibility. - Typically remote with vague job duties.2. Fake Contract Work - Often involves fake job offers with enticing benefits such as sign-on bonuses. How Scams Operate Fake Job Ads: - Used to collect CVs for non-existent or already filled positions. - A ploy to build a database to sell or share with other companies. Data Economy: - Recruiters use large databases for future opportunities or sell under GDPR compliance.Strategies to Combat Scams Vigilance: - Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of job offers. Preparation: - Stay informed about common scam tactics and red flags.Comments & Reactions-Juliann Barcal: Surprised by the extent of scams, expresses distrust in AI.- Barb Buckner: Notes the prevalence of scams on platforms like TikTok.- Colin Rawlinson: Highlights the fake job ad phenomenon and explains the recruiters' motives behind it.If you want to follow our live conversation, here you go. Additional Insights- Being cautious with personal information and financial transactions when dealing with job offers is essential.- Emphasis on not trusting overly attractive job offers without proper validation. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, I share the virtual presentation with Tewksbury Public Library in Tewksbury, MA. They had a great group of approximately 40 participants with engaging questions about scams. Like most groups I have spoken to this year, some detecting and avoiding experienced a job scam. We try to use these experiences as lessons of what to do, and what not to do. I hope you recognize how job scams are a widespread issue affecting job seekers even if they have yet to fall victim. Scammers frequently exploit the Internet, using platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to target vulnerable individuals with social engineering tactics. We must be vigilant for signs of scams, such as fake profiles and misspellings, and share our experiences to help protect others. To avoid falling victim, plan to research thoroughly, verify emails, and be cautious about sharing personal information. Importance of Awareness- Scams are universal, affecting many job seekers.- Romance scams and financial scams are prevalent.- Job scams utilize common internet access tools.- Scams are internet crimes; report them to ic3.gov.Tracking and Reporting- Use the Better Business Bureau scam tracking site.- Scams occur across all platforms, including LinkedIn, Facebook, emails, and texts.- Consider using apps like RoboKiller to manage scam calls.Recognizing Scam Tactics- Scammers use social engineering to target vulnerable individuals.- Frank Abagnale: Scammers often have 98% of your information.- Scams may seek personal information more than immediate cash.Common Scam Signs- Fake profiles mimic real recruiters and employers.- Misspellings and errors often indicate scam sites.- Scammers exploit the lack of victim’s knowledge.- Sharing scam experiences can protect others.10 Ways to Avoid Scams1. Treat every company, recruiter, and hiring manager with caution. - Research diligently to confirm legitimacy (although one red flag is often enough) - Disengage if anything seems off.2. Verify emails by checking the domain after the "@" symbol matches the company.3. Be cautious of text and email communication from unknown sources.4. Fake profiles: Check inconsistencies in activity and post history.5. Avoid messaging app communications for transactions.6. Do not provide personal information before an interview is concluded.7. Avoid websites that are bare or poorly constructed.8. Be wary of purchasing equipment or software from unknown sources.9. Evaluate LinkedIn and other social media profiles for authenticity.10. Be cautious of individuals claiming to be career coaches or resume writers.Tools and Strategies- Use Google Voice or YouMail to separate phone numbers.- Utilize security tools like VPNs and antivirus software.- Modern job search involves vetting and targeted applications.- Use LinkedIn for networking and engagement.- Trust your instincts and prioritize safety.If you want to see the video, I’ve included it below so you can also view the accompanying PowerPoint. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

For the second time, I wanted to share my interview with Craig Fisher, whose company specializes in talent operations for start-ups and big brands. His experience building companies from the ground up has given him insight into how scammers can use technology to fool job seekers and companies. This is the first time I’ve included it in the podcast directory on Substack. This is a deeper dive into a perspective from companies, their challenges, and how it applies to you. Get my FREE GUIDE, "125 Practical Modern Job Search Tips For 2024-2025" 1. Impersonation and Identity Theft: Scammers Mimicking Companies: Scammers often create fake job postings mirroring legitimate listings. They use similar names, logos, and URL structures, making it difficult for job seekers to distinguish fake listings from real ones. Sometimes, altering a single character in the URL to trick applicants. Even executives and cybersecurity professionals missed these signs of a phony job:You Should Know: A physical address with one number indicates a different household, and a URL with one letter or number difference means a different website. Avoid This Scam: Use Google to verify the correct URL or company name. Also, consider where the information comes from. 2. Pirating Job Feeds: Scraping and Reposting Jobs: Scammers scrape job feeds from legitimate companies and repost them on fake job boards, sometimes charging applicants for better placement or guaranteed job consideration, which are false promises. You Should Know: While you can find fake jobs on legitimate job boards, there are also phony job boards. You can’t be too careful to ensure you are applying for legitimate employment. Avoid This Scam: A fake job lead can be discarded with only one anomaly or slight error. Vague job descriptions, misspelled words, strange email addresses (using Gmail), or suggestions to connect on WhatsApp are enough to stop it! 3. Maintaining Job Posts and DescriptionsConstant Updates Needed: Large organizations must continually update job descriptions and other job-related content to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Scammers can exploit outdated or poorly constructed descriptions. Evergreen Jobs and Data Management: Companies often maintain ongoing (evergreen) job listings, which scammers can misuse. Keeping these listings secure and ensuring they appear legitimate is a continuous task.What You Need to Know: If you’re targeting companies and networking with people who work at your ideal companies, you’ll avoid stumbling on many fake job ads anywhere. Networking with the right people (whom you carefully vetted) will save you time by connecting you to the correct information to comply with the hiring process. Craig also pointed out that legitimate start-ups will have little content, so their sites may have little. Avoid Any Scam: Networking takes time. I’ve always said, “The way networking operates is similar to how a little yeast works through a batch of dough: Both require time, a little massaging, and consistency.” LinkedIn has a steady flow of warnings about avoiding scams. Connect with more people promoting this information, and it doesn’t hurt to ask for other connections. 4. Apparatus and TechnologyApplicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Many companies outsource job postings to ATS providers. If the ATS platforms are insecure or their feeds are hijacked, this opens a new vector for scams. What You Should Know: The challenge of ensuring each job listing is secure and verifiable, primarily when hosted on external servers, adds complexity to the company's cybersecurity efforts. Avoid This Scam: Craig recommended, “Take the whatever. com, highlight that, copy it, paste it into a Google search, and look for reputable scores and things like that. If you have any complaints of scams from that website, just double-check because, once again, anyone can do that.”5. Brand ProtectionPublic Misinformation: Scammers damage a company's reputation by tricking job seekers into thinking they are legitimate representatives. This can lead to negative perceptions and potential brand trust loss. What You Should Know: Companies must provide clear guidelines and public information on their legitimate hiring process to help job seekers identify scams. Not doing this effectively can leave job seekers vulnerable. Please avoid being misled: Only apply to companies with clear application instructions, specific hiring process outlines, and contact information. 6. Fraud Detection and Response Identifying and Tracking Scams: Detecting and responding swiftly to scams is challenging. Stay ahead of scammers who continually adapt their tactics, robust monitoring systems, and cybersecurity measures. Handling Data Breaches: In the event of a breach in which personal data is stolen from job applications, companies need robust data protection and response strategies to mitigate the impact and protect job seekers. What You Should Do: Don’t offer personal information before you confirm the company, recruiter, and its policies as legitimate. Actual companies only ask for personally identifiable information until they hire you after the company has confirmed (in writing). Consider using a special Gmail and Google Voice Mail for all job search transactions. Avoid giving your home address (but you will be asked for your city), check or bank account, or any other financial assets to anyone until vetted. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I hope you will make “The Job Scam Report” your go-to podcast as part of your overall job search portal for knowledge and awareness. Security is necessary for today’s job search while applying sound strategies to find your next opportunity. Success is not possible without safety. In this episode, Kerry Tomlinson offers her perspective, knowledge, and expertise to help job seekers spot deepfake videos. - Background: Award-winning news reporter focusing on cyber issues. - Experience: 10 years in cybersecurity reporting, and previously a TV news reporter. - Special focus on deepfake videos.Deepfake Videos and Job ScamsExplanation of Deepfakes- Deepfakes are manipulated media (videos or images) using AI.- Commonly used in romance scams, predicted to transition into job scams.- Scammers use apps to create fake live video calls with victims.Psychological Manipulation- Victims want to believe the scams due to emotional needs (e.g., need for a job, loneliness).- Social engineering plays a critical role in exploiting emotional vulnerabilities.Evolution of Job ScamsInitial Phases- Scammers create fake jobs to gather personal information.- Development of fake profiles on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.Current Trends- Deepfake videos are used to enhance scam authenticity.- Scammers impersonating real individuals or creating entirely fake personas.Dangers and Implications of Personal Information Theft- Scammers' primary goal: collect personal information, including bank details.- Direct deposit scams: Asking for bank information, leading to theft.- Fake check scams: Victims deposit fake checks and are asked to return money.Malware and System Infiltration- Scammers use malware to steal passwords, track keystrokes, and gather sensitive data.- Victims inadvertently download malware through links or attachments provided by scammers.Employer and Job Seeker Challenges and Employer Perspective- Use AI in hiring processes, e.g., filtering candidates, pre-screening.- Risks of hiring fake employees or vendors.- Need for clear distinctions between legitimate companies and scammers.Job Seeker Perspective- Increased need for vigilance and verification of job offers.- Recognizing red flags in job applications and interviews (or a lack of an application process) is essential.- Risk of falling victim to scams due to emotional desperation or financial need.Solutions and Preventative MeasuresFor Job Seekers- Verify all job-related communications and offers.- Avoid sharing personal information without due diligence.- Be wary of red flags such as immediate asks for money or personal details.For Employers- Distinguish clearly from scams in communication and processes.- Encourage job seekers to verify information.Reporting and Community AwarenessReporting Scams- Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and IC3 (FBI).- Importance of community awareness and sharing scam experiences.Encouragement for Caution- Lead with suspicion and verify all aspects of job offers.- Explore AI to understand and combat scam tactics.Conclusion- There is a continued need for cybersecurity awareness and education.- Emphasis on verification and cautious engagement with potential employers. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of “The Job Scam Report,” we are attempting to cover as much ground as possible since there are many new layers to old scams. We know as technology evolves and changes, so will perpetrators’ scams. Ashley and Jay joined me on another LinkedIn Live to help the job seeker community become more knowledgeable and aware. We discuss more about fake LinkedIn profiles from fake career services professionals, email scams, and more about scam prevention. We provided common solution tactics such as diligent research, sharing “attack” with your network, and scrutinizing term agreements when using new platforms. Show highlights: Job Scams on LinkedIn - Focus on fake profiles of presidential candidates. Jay continues to do great work and service in sharing examples on LinkedIn. - Highlighted scams involving fake certifications in career services, mainly in the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) and the National Resume Writers Association (NRWA). We hope more of those members will be vocal in sharing scams affecting pretending to be certified. - Fake profiles often claim outdated or non-renewed member certifications. - Networking is essential to verifying the legitimacy of service providers (especially with members of those organizations). “Community” could provide experiences and knowledge for all to grow awareness.- Impact on college career counselors and potential risks to students. - Scammers often use outdated certs to appear legitimate. - Example: Older certifications from 2009 or earlier are listed as credible (yet need to be scrutinized). -Referrals from your network increase the likelihood of applying to a real job. Referrals or recommendations from familiar connections are better than cold outreach. - Many scammers use outdated stats and data to seem credible. - Suggested approach: question the source of statistics and claims.Mention of the interview with Kerry Tomlinson (podcast to be published soon) - Kerry is a cyber reporter who has given numerous talks voluntarily. She has spent the last 10 years reporting and researching cybercrime. - Discussed her participation in more than 45 panels last month. - Covered her insights into deep fakes and the broader scam spectrum. Further Resume Scam Prevention - Avoid sharing resumes with unknown recruiters on LinkedIn. - Use traditional resume formats for better compatibility with ATS (Applicant Tracking System). - Resumes should focus on content, not overly elaborate designs.Technology and Scams - Deep Fakes and AI - Discussion on the rise of deepfake videos in job scams. - Real recruiters should be forthcoming with information, alerting the community to impersonations and fake job postings. - Encourage verifying the identity of recruiters as a preventive measure through the company directly or the actual recruiter. Scam Emails and Data Privacy - Tips on managing scam emails and protecting your data (Check out Ashley’s Google messaging advice). - Turn off images in emails to avoid tracking. - Be cautious with free AI tools that alter personal images.Final Recommendations - Always verify the legitimacy of job offers and profiles. - Consider using secure email practices and spreadsheet tracking for job applications. - Engage with trusted job sites like USAjobs.gov and FlexJobs for vetted listings. - Encourage open discussions and reporting of scams to diminish their impact.Conclusion - Encouraged audience participation in the discussion. - Emphasized the importance of being vigilant against scams in the job market. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I hope you’ve been enjoying “The Job Scam Report.” I want to improve it and make it more relevant to your needs. I hope you will take three minutes to fill out my survey to give me an idea of how to meet your needs and make you more aware of, avoid, and defend against job scams. If you have recently experienced a job loss or are beginning a job search, I have a 42-page eGuide to help you get started. The FREE “125 Practical Modern Job Search Tips 2024-25” is available to download! I visited Dr. Linda Brubaker’s Monthly Lunch and Learn group for an hour of Q&A to answer job scam questions. Please follow Linda on LinkedIn and visit her YouTube channel for insightful job search help and coaching. When we started, she had many of her members ready with questions and concerns:Here are the questions asked, along with short summarized answers: 1. What to do after recognizing you've been scammed?* Report to IC3.gov (FBI),* If financial transactions were involved, dispute charges with your credit card company. * You can use a phone service like Google Voice or Youmail to get another number so your real one isn’t exposed. 2. Is it a scam if a recruiter text as a first contact - * Likely, yes. Legitimate recruiters typically don't use text as an initial contact method. * Use email or LinkedIn for validation and approach unsolicited texts cautiously. 3. Should you trust social media job opportunities and claims of easy money?* Be cautious; many of these claims can be scams. * Legitimate opportunities often require substantial effort and time investment. 4. How to recognize fake URLs and company websites?* Check for slight URL misspellings and use safe search engines to vet them before clicking. * Be wary of additional letters or suspicious extensions. 5. How to determine if a company's website is real?* Vet the URL before visiting. Avoid downloading anything from unknown sites, which can contain spyware or malware. * Always ensure the URL genuinely matches the company's expected official domain. Use a search engine to double-check its validity. 6. Should you upload your resume to job sites?* Be cautious about where you upload your resume. Avoid putting personal information like addresses on public sites.7. Is there a free VPN service recommendation? Although not free, Nord VPN and IP Vanish are recommended for better security on public Wi-Fi networks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

This episode features Marc Evans, a financial crimes detective and co-founder of Fraud Hero. Marc discusses job scams, social engineering, and identity theft and elaborates on his role as a detective and Fraud Hero's mission to help prevent fraud. Highlights:He emphasizes that job scams are a form of cybercrime with complexities involving multiple levels of victimization. He shares that scammers often use social engineering to exploit victims, obtaining personal information via data breaches and using it to execute scams. Marc mentions that once scammers have partial information, they can quickly gather more details about their victims through third-party data brokers.“And you use the term right there, human hacking. That's exactly what social engineering is. It's just manipulating a person into giving over some confidential information or getting them to carry out an act that they shouldn't carry out. And sometimes that act can have criminal repercussions when it comes to it.”He highlights that protecting personal information is crucial and suggests freezing credit reports as a preventive measure.Reminder: GET YOUR FREE 125 Practical Modern Job Search Tips!!Marc also discusses various scam tactics such as phishing, vishing (voice phishing), and smishing (SMS phishing), explaining how each method aims to manipulate individuals into providing sensitive information. Marc stresses the importance of pausing, thinking, and verifying before reacting to suspicious messages or calls. Listen to: How To Spot a Fake LinkedIn Profile And Its DangersMarc gives examples of business email compromise and in-person scams where scammers coerce individuals into handing over money. He provides an example of an employee giving fake employees (whom he thought were actual employees) using a Deepfake AI video. The employee gave the imposters access to 25 million dollars. I shared this in an article back in June. “You have some people gathering money within their business, walking out the door, delivering it to another person who they believe works for the business. And then, come to find out, 30 minutes later, they were tricked. And now the business sometimes out of maybe a couple thousand dollars, I've seen to well over a million dollars.”The significance of using protective services like LifeLock and credit monitoring is discussed, although Marc notes they could be more foolproof. I only use some of these services as assurances and extra alert touchpoints. He explains certain services can be beneficial in alerting individuals to potential identity theft, allowing them to act swiftly to mitigate further damage. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

Join my guest, Jay Jones, aka #TheProfiler, and I discuss the prevalent issue of fake LinkedIn profiles and their dangers with guest Jay Jones, a seasoned copywriter and LinkedIn profiler. We discuss tactics used by scammers on LinkedIn, how to spot these fake profiles, and ways to protect yourself from falling victim. Jay shares real-life examples of scams and offers actionable advice on how job seekers can safeguard their personal information and career prospects. Have you seen fake LinkedIn profiles? Did they appear on a LinkedIn post? Please share your experience. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I was on the podcast “Young Professionals Career Catalyst” with host Shelley Maley. We explore the pervasive and troubling issue of job scams.If you need additional help with your job search and more motivation and inspiration, I invite you to listen to my other show, "The Voice of Job Seekers!"Together, we dissect the various job scams targeting younger generations, such as job phishing and resume looting, and their devastating effects on individuals and their careers.I share how scammers manipulate modern technology and social engineering techniques to exploit job seekers’ vulnerabilities. I offer practical advice on identifying potential scams, protecting personal information, and the crucial steps to take if you have been victimized.I hope you continue to equip yourself with the knowledge to safeguard your personal information and avoid deceptive job offers.Here are highlights of the show:10:01 - 12:00: Populations most affected by job scams and their reasons.12:01 - 16:00: Insights into job fishing and other scam techniques.16:01 - 19:00: Breakdown of how scammers utilize personal information.19:01 - 22:00: Various job scam warning signs and red flags.22:01 - 25:00: The challenges AI poses in identifying scams.25:01 - 28:00: Recommendations for protecting oneself post-scam.28:01 - 34:00: Real-life job scam scenarios and prevention tips.34:01 - 36:00: Importance of critical thinking and verifying recruiter authenticity. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I am joined by Craig Fisher, a talent acquisition professional, to discuss the pervasive problem of job scams affecting job seekers and employers. I welcome Craig Fisher to the show. Craig is a fractional talent acquisition leader and consultant for various companies. He has a unique employer perspective on the job scam surge and how they respond. Highlights:This episode will be published on two podcasts: "The Voice of Job Seekers" (later this fall) and "The Job Scam Report." Craig notes the complications employers face with job postings, particularly through applicant tracking systems (ATS). He highlights how scammers pirate job feeds, using XML data from ATS to deceive job seekers. Employer Challenges: Craig discusses how new companies may seem suspicious to job seekers due to their lack of legacy content. He emphasizes the importance of employer branding in building trust. Details of Job Scams: Scammers create nearly identical job postings or URLs to trick job seekers. Craig mentions that organized crime syndicates are often behind these scams. - Craig advises being cautious about clicking suspicious links or engaging with unknown entities. Advice for Employers: Craig recommends employers test their job application processes to ensure they are user-friendly and legitimate. He also stresses the importance of having a clear and transparent hiring process outlined on a company's website. Evergreen Jobs and Data Usage: Craig clarifies that many job postings are "evergreen," continuously collecting resumes for high-turnover positions. He underscores the importance of employers having privacy policies and safely managing applicant data. Data Breaches and Global Concerns: I raise concerns about data breaches and the global nature of job scams. Craig notes that global sourcing teams contribute to the complexity of data security. Craig agrees with the widespread and growing threat of job scams. For those interested in learning more or reading his book, he provides his contact information, including his website (hiring-humans.com) and LinkedIn. You can watch our conversation below: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe

I was recently on Orlando Haynes' "CareerTALKS" podcast to discuss job search trends and job scams. This week, the podcast is the job scams segment of his show. Please subscribe to Orlando's podcast and leave a review about our show. We discuss the increasing prevalence of job search scams and highlight the tactics scammers use to deceive job seekers, such as fake job postings and sophisticated impersonations. The conversation covers the importance of due diligence, recognizing red flags like financial requests, and verifying recruiter identities through reliable platforms. I offer steps on how job seekers can protect themselves and identify legitimate job opportunities by being cautious, asking questions, and confirming details directly with companies.00:00 Introduction to Job Scams and Trends00:23 How Scammers Target Job Seekers01:53 Sophisticated Scamming Techniques02:14 Real-Life Scam Examples04:54 Red Flags and Verification Tips08:14 Employer Precautions Against Scams08:39 Advanced Scamming Technologies10:00 Global Scamming Incidents10:54 Staying Vigilant on Job Platforms13:01 Final Tips for Job Seekers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit markanthonydyson.substack.com/subscribe