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In today’s digital world, scams are everywhere — from fake social media giveaways to suspicious text messages sent directly to your phone. Unfortunately, the job search space isn’t immune. Scammers are increasingly impersonating legitimate platforms like HigherEdJobs and other major job boards in order to target job seekers. To protect yourself, it’s essential to stay aware and recognize the warning signs of scams and fraudulent activity.
Verify the Sender’s Email Address or Phone Number
One of the easiest ways to spot a scam is by checking the sender’s contact details. Is the email coming from a domain that matches the company or job board’s official site? For example, legitimate HigherEdJobs emails would come from @higheredjobs.com email addresses (and we never send text messages). A message from a generic Gmail or Yahoo address — not affiliated with a company — is often cause for concern.
Stay vigilant, though, because scammers frequently create look-alike email domains that closely mimic real ones. If you’re rushing or simply not careful, you may be duped into thinking it’s legitimate. Double-check the spelling and formatting of the sender’s name and domain.
If you’re contacted by phone or text, look up the company or job board online to verify whether the number matches any official listings. If it doesn’t, it’s best not to respond or engage any further.
Watch for Professionalism
Legitimate recruiters and hiring managers typically communicate clearly and professionally. Be cautious of messages with poor grammar, excessive typos, misspellings, or confusing phrasing. These are all signs that the message may not be coming from a credible source.
Protect Your Personal Information
Oftentimes scammers will try to gain access to personal information such as social security numbers, financial records, driver’s license information, etc. A legitimate employer will never request this sensitive information before a formal meeting or interview. Do not share any private information before verifying the legitimacy of a request.
Use Official Communication Channels
If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of a message, don’t reply directly. Instead, contact the company through verified and professional channels. You can:
- Submit a contact form on the company’s official website
- Call the phone number listed on their website
- Reach out through their verified social media profiles
The Bottom Line
Staying cautious and verifying details is essential for protecting yourself during your job search, especially as scammers increasingly target eager job seekers. A direct message about a job opportunity can be exciting — but don’t let that excitement override your judgment. When in doubt, take a step back, do your research, and trust your instincts. Employers and job boards will typically be happy to hear from you and help clear up any confusion about whether a text message or email is legitimate.
