Job Scams on the Rise

Background The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has over the past few weeks received several reports indicating an increase in job scams using a new approach/tactic. At least fifteen (15) reports have been received through the cybercrime/cybersecurity incident reporting points of contact with victims losing over GH₵ 124,000. Modus Operandi Unsolicited messages are randomly sent to the public via SMS, emails, and messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram. The scammers pose as recruiters and advertise remote/part-time high-paying job roles that require performing digital tasks such as liking social media posts and giving referrals to friends Interested individuals are directed to interact with the recruiters on WhatsApp or Telegram via a link embedded in the unsolicited message. The recruiters engage victims to sign up on their portal for available positions and to manage their assigned tasks and supposed earnings. At the onset, victims are paid relatively low sums (usually less than GH₵ 200) for completing the assigned tasks. The victims are subsequently requested to make cash deposits to be assigned more lucrative tasks and to release all the earnings they have made from completing the previous tasks. Once substantial deposits are made, the victims are eventually locked out of their accounts and prevented from contacting the scammers, without receiving the promised large payouts. Recommendation Be cautious of unsolicited messages offering job opportunities. Be skeptical of high-paying jobs that require minimal work. If it seems too good to be true, it is likely a scam. Be wary of poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or unprofessional communication in job advertisements. Always verify job advertisements directly with the company's official website or contact information. Avoid relying solely on communication through email or instant messaging. Do not share personal or financial information unless you are certain of the legitimacy of the prospective employer Contact the Cyber Security Authority The CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking guidance and assistance on online activities, Call or Text – 292, WhatsApp – 0501603111, Email – report@csa.gov.gh Issued by Cyber Security Authority November 21, 2023