Protect Yourself from Employment Scams

Important Notice:

In today’s digital age, there is a global problem with scammers exploiting the employment process for the purpose of identity theft and fraud. We are asking current and prospective job candidates to be on the lookout and to protect themselves from the schemes so as not to fall victim.

What Are Identity Scams?

Employment process scams often involve fraudsters posing as recruiters or representatives of legitimate companies to exploit job seekers. They may offer fake job opportunities and request sensitive personal information, upfront payments for training or equipment. One increasingly common scheme involves fake employer direct deposit scams. These types of fraud can have serious financial repercussions.

How to Spot Identity Scams:

• Unsolicited and Unexpected Requests: Be wary of unsolicited employment calls or emails offering you an interview or a job for which you have not applied, and calls, or messages asking for personal or financial information. Scammers may also advertise fake job openings or contact you directly with job offers that seem too good to be true.
• Phishing Emails: Emails from look-alike company domains or using official logos and branding to appear legitimate, asking you to click on links or download attachment
• Unusual Email Addresses: The sender’s message comes from a personal email account or the email address that looks similar to Natividad.com or CountyofMonterey.gov.
• Suspicious Links or Attachments: Do not click on links, download attachments or sign forms from unknown or untrusted sources.
• Upfront Payments: You might be asked to pay for background checks, training materials, or equipment before starting the job.
• Urgent or Threatening Language: Scammers often create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt quick action without verifying the legitimacy.

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Verify Requests: Always confirm the identity of the person or organization requesting your information before sharing it.
2. Contact Us: If you are unsure if an email message or contact is legitimate, do not reply back or call the phone number given to you. Contact Natividad Human Resources by calling (831) 783-2700 or emailing nmc-hrhelp@natividad.com
3. Stay Informed: Educate yourself on the latest scam tactics and regularly review your accounts for unusual activity.

What to Do If You’re a Victim:

If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to any HR related scam, take immediate action:

• Cease Communication: Stop all communication with the scammer immediately and do not provide any more information.
• Notify Your Bank: Report the fraudulent activity to your bank to safeguard your accounts and attempt to recover lost funds.
• File a Report: Report the incident to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.
• Make us Aware: Contact us at nmc-hrhelp@natividad.com and let us know about your experience.

Your vigilance is the best defense against employment process scams. Stay informed, stay cautious, and protect your personal information.