Protect Yourself from Scams
Protect Yourself From Phishing Scams
What is Phishing?
Phishing is a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information (like passwords or credit card numbers) by pretending to be a trustworthy source - usually through email or text.
When in doubt, reach out!
How to Protect Yourself:
- Spot the Red Flags: If it sounds too good to be true (e.g., high pay for little work), it probably is.
- Never Pay to Apply: Legitimate employers won’t ask you for money, kits, or software.
- Experience Counts: Be cautious of roles that don’t care about your background or qualifications.
- Interview is a Must: Real employers want to meet you - no interview usually means it’s a scam.
- Text-Only Interviews? Big red flag. Scammers often avoid face-to-face interaction.
- Check Grammar & Spelling: Professional companies don't send sloppy emails.
- Unsolicited Offers: If you didn’t apply, how did they get your info? Be cautious.
- Know Who You're Talking To: Avoid vague recruiters or emails with no contact info.
- Verify Everything: Check that the email address matches the company’s domain (e.g., not a Gmail address for a corporate job).
- Look for a Legit Website: No website or a sketchy one? Walk away.
- Don't Be Rushed: Scammers push you to act fast - real employers won’t.
- Google It: Search the job offer or recruiter name/email - others may have flagged it.
- Protect Your Info: Never fill out random forms asking for personal or financial data.
- Use Handshake: It’s a safer way to apply - vetted and approved employers!
Think You’ve Been Scammed?
- Save everything: Keep all emails, messages, receipts, and other proof.
- Call your bank: Freeze cards or accounts right away.
- Report it: Forward suspicious emails to abuse@jjay.cuny.edu but report to helpdesk
- File a report: Contact your local police department.
- Inform: Let the Career Learning Lab team know so we can help flag active scams to fellow students via careers@jjay.cuny.edu.
Not Sure if It’s a Scam?
Reach out to DoIT at helpdesk@jjay.cuny.edu - it’s better to double-check than fall for a scam!
Here's what they could look like!
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Stay aware; stay safe!
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