Stay Safe Job Hunting
Spot recruitment scams in 10 seconds
Consumer Guide
5 min read
Recruiter Red Flags: Spot Job Scams in 10 Seconds
The instant decision framework that protects job seekers from recruitment scams. Identify fake recruiters before they steal your passport and identity.
The 10-Second Scam Detection Framework
Red Flag: Before Interview
"Never share passport pre-interview"
Red Flag: Personal Channels
"WhatsApp/Gmail = instant scam"
Safe: Post-Offer Only
"Right-to-work after job offer"
Result: Stop identity theft before it starts with instant scam detection.
Share Passport Safely (When Required)FileSeal Security Team
Updated June 2025
The Instant Red Flag Test
If ANY of these apply, it's a scam: Passport request before interview, personal email/WhatsApp contact, urgent pressure, upfront fees, or too-good-to-be-true salary.
Instant Scam Indicators
- • WhatsApp/personal email requests
- • Pre-interview document demands
- • "Urgent" passport photo needs
What Scammers Want
- • Your passport for identity theft
- • Personal details for fraud
- • Fee payments for fake jobs
When Legitimate Jobs Need Passport
Real Jobs: Post-Offer Only
- • After you've accepted a written job offer
- • During official onboarding process
- • Through company HR systems, not personal email
- • Right-to-work verification requirement (UK law)
Share Documents Safely When Required
When legitimate employers require passport verification, don't risk email security. Use encrypted document sharing that protects your identity.