Virgin Media O2 has issued an urgent warning to millions of UK households after reporting a significant rise in recruitment scams targeting young people as they search for work. Job scams have now entered the top 10 most commonly reported scams, according to the company.
The warning comes as the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures show that almost one million 16–24-year-olds are currently not in education, employment or training. Virgin Media O2 says that nearly one in three young people say they have fallen for a recruitment scam, the highest proportion of any age group.
Examples of scam messages
The company has shared examples of messages that should raise a red flag, including: “Hello, this is Charles from [recruitment platform]. A job may fit your profile. Reply YES for details or STOP to opt out.” Another reads: “Simply take 60-90 minutes out of your day to work at your favourite time and place, and you can easily earn £100-£300!”
Another example states: “Hi, I’m Anna from [recruitment agency]. We’ve got a fantastic job opportunity that might be just what you’re looking for. Can i share the details with you?”
How victims are targeted
Those who are fooled face losing money by being asked to pay for equipment or sign-up fees. Many are also asked to download fake apps, which then install dangerous malware on their devices.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, said: “Looking for work can be challenging, and an unexpected recruitment message can look like the break someone has been waiting for. Scammers exploit that hope, posing as familiar companies and recruiters to persuade people to respond.”
Advice to avoid becoming a victim
Virgin Media O2 advises people to find the organisation’s official website independently and use its published contact details to verify the recruiter and vacancy. It is also important to check whether the company getting in touch is genuine, and alarm bells should ring if high earnings are promised without needing experience.
Finally, the company says to avoid clicking links, downloading software or sending payments or sensitive details in response to an unverified approach.
