The Top Job Scams to Watch for in 2025

Recognising the red flags can protect you from job fraud.

Searching for a job in Malaysia has become a battleground against an alarming rise in job scams. Fraudulent job offers and deceptive tactics have become more prevalent than ever as scammers continue to exploit the dreams and aspirations of jobseekers. With an increasing number of people falling victim to these scams, it’s crucial for people to be able to protect themselves from losing money, personal information, and their trust in legitimate opportunities.

As a trusted career partner, Jobstreet by SEEK is at the forefront of combating these issues. Committed to safeguarding jobseekers, the platform implements stringent screening processes to protect users from unethical recruitment practices, deceptive schemes and even threats like modern slavery. Recent data highlights the urgency of addressing this issue as job scams continue to escalate across the region.

Below are some of the most common scams and tips to identify and avoid them:

Cryptocurrency Task Fraud

Cryptocurrency task fraud preys on individuals seeking remote work opportunities by promising payments in cryptocurrency for completing simple tasks, such as surveys or data entry. Scammers typically begin by posting enticing job ads on social media or job boards, showcasing quick and easy ways to earn cryptocurrency. Once a victim shows interest, they are asked to make an upfront payment or purchase cryptocurrency to gain access to these tasks.

This payment is deceptively positioned as a necessary step to unlock earning potential. However, once the payment is made, scammers vanish, leaving victims without the promised tasks or payment. The financial losses from these schemes can be substantial, with little recourse for recovery.

Money Mule Scam

This involves scammers recruiting individuals, often unwittingly, to facilitate the transfer of illegally obtained funds under the guise of legitimate job opportunities. Fraudsters post fake job advertisements offering high pay for minimal work, such as managing payments. After accepting the job, victims find themselves receiving funds into their accounts, usually from illegal sources. They are instructed to withdraw a portion of the money and transfer the remainder to another account, often in exchange for a commission.

When the scam is uncovered, victims face severe legal consequences for their unknowing role in laundering stolen funds, including potential criminal charges and financial liabilities.

Identity Theft Scam

This type of scam leverages fake job postings to collect sensitive personal information from unsuspecting applicants. Fraudsters create convincing advertisements, often impersonating legitimate companies to attract jobseekers with promises of attractive salaries and flexible work conditions. Applicants are asked to submit personal details, such as bank account information and copies of identification, as part of the application process.

Once scammers have this information, it is misused for fraudulent activities like opening bank accounts or applying for loans in the victim’s name. Victims face significant financial losses and considerable challenges in reclaiming their identity and restoring their financial standing.

Impersonation Scams
Scammers are increasingly approaching individuals through various channels, including messaging platforms like WhatsApp, phone calls and social media chats. They often use pretexts such as offering high-paying jobs, notifying individuals that their resume has been approved or promising earnings from sharing links. These scammers typically instruct victims to contact them via unofficial platforms, where they attempt to collect personal information or request actions outside legitimate job application processes.

Jobstreet by SEEK emphasises that its official communications are conducted exclusively through secure platforms. It will never ask jobseekers to provide personal details or complete applications outside its secure ecosystem. If you receive such messages, report and block the numbers immediately. Stay vigilant, as highlighted in Jobstreet’s recent Scam Alert update, where scammers have been impersonating the platform to deceive jobseekers.

In the first half of 2024, job scams reached unprecedented levels, with scammers employing increasingly sophisticated methods to exploit jobseekers’ aspirations. To address this growing concern, Jobstreet by SEEK has implemented comprehensive strategies aimed at protecting jobseekers and fostering a safe hiring ecosystem. These measures include:

rigorous screening processes for employers and job advertisements
prioritisation of data protection
advanced monitoring of cyber threats

By providing educational resources, the platform empowers jobseekers to identify potential scams and respond effectively.

Between July 2023 and June 2024, Jobstreet by SEEK conducted extensive reviews of 4.9 million job advertisements across the Asia-Pacific region, flagging approximately 10% for further investigation. Over 1,400 high-risk hirers were identified and blocked during the onboarding process, while more than 1,200 fraudulent advertisements were removed through proactive checks and verified community reports.

“Scammers take advantage of jobseekers who may overlook warning signs in their urgency to find employment. This exploitation not only causes financial harm but also discourages victims from continuing their job search. Raising awareness and promoting vigilance are essential to countering these scams effectively,” said Nicholas Lam, Managing Director at Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia.

Jobstreet by SEEK continues to collaborate with local authorities and refine its fraud detection measures to protect jobseekers and uphold fair hiring practices. Addressing risks such as modern slavery and unethical recruitment remains a key focus, ensuring the platform contributes positively to the broader community.

Jobseekers are urged to exercise caution, protect their personal information, and report any suspicious job advertisements. For detailed information on scams and tips on staying safe, visit the Security and Privacy Hub at https://my.jobstreet.com/security-privacy to stay informed about the latest scam activities.

If you encounter any suspicious activity or fraudulent communication, please reach out to Jobstreet by SEEK through the following channels during operating hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM):