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Scammers use a range of tactics to trick job seekers into sharing personal or financial information. These include posting fake job ads and using dodgy recruitment agencies and online jobs boards.
Having adequate insurance is important to staying safe when undertaking unpaid work experience.
Four tips to increase your safety while looking for a job
Below are simple steps you can take to stay safe while looking for work.
- Use trusted jobs sites. Leading jobs board providers work to make sure the vacancies listed on their site are real. They also provide advice on safe job seeking.
- Think twice before uploading your resume. Before uploading your resume, check the job website's privacy policy. Find out how they will store and distribute your information. Never include your date of birth or home address in an uploaded resume.
- Find recruitment agencies and labour hire firms that offer you real employment. There are lots of different recruitment and labour hire agencies. Some specialise in finding people for specific industries or occupations, while others focus in short-term placements.
- Research recruitment agencies to find one with a history of placing people like you into real jobs with reputable employers. Get recommendations from others on the best recruiters. If you are still unsure, ask the agency to provide you with information on their placement rates.
- Don't provide your bank details to an employer until your employment has been confirmed. Don't forget to check that you are being paid the correct amount.
- Don’t forget your insurance. If you are with Workforce Australia or arrange work experience through your school, you will probably be covered if you have an accident. You should always check your insurance before starting work experience. If you have a paid job, even short term roles, your employer’s insurance will also apply to you. If you organise your own unpaid work experience, you will likely need to arrange your own insurance cover. For more information, read our article ‘Stay safe on work experience’.
Where can I get more information on staying safe online?
- eSafety Commissioner - a national cybersafety and cybersecurity education program managed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), as part of the Australian Government's commitment to cybersafety.
- Australian Cyber Security Centre - the Australian Government's online safety and security website. It aims to help everyone understand the risks and simple steps to take to protect personal and financial information online.
- SCAMwatch - a website run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). SCAMwatch provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams.
