How to Spot Fake LinkedIn Job Postings

There are more than a billion LinkedIn users across over 200 countries, with more than 67 million company profiles, making it the largest professional digital network in the world for candidates, recruiters and companies.

Unfortunately, LinkedIn is not only a popular platform for professionals who want to connect with each other, but also for scammers phishing for personal information.

Thankfully, there are signs you can watch out for to spot these scammers and protect yourself. So how can you use LinkedIn safely, and how can you protect yourself from LinkedIn job scams?

Why Are There Fake Jobs on LinkedIn?

LinkedIn job scams mostly come from fraudsters posing as recruiters or hiring managers from a company. They often have vague profiles with little engagement or are new to the platform.

Every second, 90 applications are submitted on LinkedIn, creating the perfect environment for these scammers to target candidates. While LinkedIn reported that it removed more than 63 million fake accounts between July and December 2023, job listings scams remain one of its biggest challenges.

A fake job posting is an effective way for scammers to obtain information from candidates. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not only scammers who post fake job listings, some companies and hiring managers also post non-existent jobs, mainly for marketing goals. Here’s why fake jobs might appear on LinkedIn:

Job Listing Scams

1. Phishing: A scammer may request sensitive information, like bank details, or ask you to install malware for their job process. The aim is to illegally access your personal data to steal money or commit other crimes.
2. Data harvesting: This tactic is mainly used for identity theft or selling your personal data on the black market. Fake job postings and recruiters ask for information solely to pass it on to third parties or to use your identity for illegal purchases or activities.
3. Fake purchases: Scammers might trick you into buying training materials or subscribing to a fake job portal. This is just another way to extract money from you.
4. Hacking your LinkedIn profile: Scammers may request an SMS code under the pretext of "verifying your identity", but this is just another trick to hijack your LinkedIn account using two-factor authentication and scam your followers.

Fake Job Listings from Companies

1. Lead generation: Some companies collect candidate information for sales campaigns or email marketing, rather than for genuine recruitment.
2. Image boosting: Posting fake jobs can create the illusion of growth and financial stability, boosting the company's image and attracting more clients or candidates.

5 Ways to Spot a Fake LinkedIn Job Posting

Even if a LinkedIn job listing looks legitimate, these red flags could indicate a scam:

Too Good to Be True

Low expectations, but an exceptionally high salary? If it sounds too perfect, it probably is. Genuine roles with attractive benefits typically require experience, high engagement/motivation or specialised skills. A job that demands little but offers a lot is unlikely to be legitimate.  

Vague Job Description

Fake listings often lack details and are written with generic language because they aim to attract as many candidates as possible. Real jobs offer clear descriptions, defined responsibilities, and information about the company’s mission, values, and sector.

No or Limited Company Information

Legitimate employers include company details in their LinkedIn job listings and maintain an active LinkedIn presence. This typically includes regular posts and a complete company profile featuring website details and a physical address. A missing logo or incomplete recruiter or company profile is a clear warning sign.

Upfront Payments

Scammers may request payments for applications, training, or access to job portals. These fees are often disguised as “mandatory” steps to secure the role or improve your chances as a candidate. However, genuine job listings will never ask candidates to pay anything in order to obtain a position.

Early Requests for Personal Information

If you're asked for your National Insurance number, bank details, or ID before even interviewing, it's a red flag. No trustworthy recruiter or hiring manager will request this information so early. Sharing such details with a fake recruiter can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorised use of your documents. 

Once your personal data is compromised, it can be extremely difficult to regain control and prevent further misuse.

Unprofessional Communication

Poor grammar, an overly casual tone, and incorrect spelling can be signs of a scam. Professional recruiters uphold high standards of communication, so anything less should be treated with caution. 

Fake job listings often use generic, impersonal messages that aren't tailored to your experience or role. If the language feels off, overly pushy, or resembles a mass message, it's likely not from a legitimate employer.

How Can You Protect Yourself from LinkedIn Job Scams?

Fortunately, there are a few important steps you can take when job searching:

Research the Company and Recruiter 

Check the recruiter profile is connected to the company they’re claiming to represent,  does the company appear genuine? Do they have multiple active profiles connected to them? Do they have a lot of followers?

Check the Hiring Process

Is the process unusually fast or lacking proper checks? That’s a red flag. Real hiring takes time, involves multiple interviews, and focuses on both skills and cultural fit. Only apply through trusted job portals or official company websites. 

If you notice that the hiring process isn’t conducted in a genuine and trustworthy way, do not proceed or share any personal information.

Never Pay Upfront

Even if repayment is promised, never send money for job-related materials, training, or uniforms before signing a legitimate contract. A hiring process should never cost you money, and the chance of being reimbursed is quite small.

Don’t Share Sensitive Information

Never disclose your bank details, personal identification, or security numbers before receiving a formal job offer in writing. While this may seem obvious, scammers can be highly persuasive and often use convincing language and false promises to gain your trust.

Check Their Communication Style

Genuine recruiters and hiring managers typically use clear, precise language that reflects a thorough understanding of the role and the company. Their communication is personalised, addressing you by name and referencing specific details related to your application or experience. 

Avoid Jobs Older Than a Month

Outdated job listings might be ‘ghost jobs’, positions that have already been filled but remain visible to create the impression that the company is actively recruiting. Applying for such roles can waste your time and effort. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid applying for jobs that have been posted for more than one month. 

Legitimate Job Postings at Amoria Bond

At Amoria Bond, we value professionalism, transparency, and clear communication. That’s why we invest in award-winning trainee programmes to ensure our recruiters are fully equipped to deliver the best possible service to both candidates and clients.

A job listing from Amoria Bond will usually include the name of the recruiter and, in some cases, their email address. Our listings also provide a detailed description of the job role and requirements, along with a brief overview of the company.

When applying, candidates will always be directed to our official website or our LinkedIn Job Board. Amoria Bond will never ask you to apply through external websites or platforms that require payment. Our recruiters will also never request money from candidates, as their goal is to help individuals secure the right job, not to profit directly from them.

In terms of communication, our recruiters will contact you either via LinkedIn or email. If you receive unsolicited messages or calls on WhatsApp from someone claiming to work for Amoria Bond, it is likely to be a scam. If you’re ever unsure, you can always contact us through our official website to report a suspicious job listing or message.

Progress Your Career with Amoria Bond

At Amoria Bond, our candidates benefit from individual support by specialised recruiters in Technology, Advanced Engineering, and Energy. 

From start to finish, we’ll support you throughout the selection process, recommending the most relevant permanent positions and contract roles with leading employers worldwide.

Get in touch today to learn how we can help you find your ideal role.