If you are looking for work in tourism and hospitality, be cautious of job scams, especially if you’re a non-resident (with a relevant working visa) or just starting out.
Scammers often pretend to be legit businesses or recruitment agencies, offering what seem like great jobs — usually task-based with promises of commission — but they’re just trying to steal your money or personal details. If a job sounds too good to be true or asks for personal info upfront, be careful!
Always check things out before diving in. The good news? The National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch service now has advice in 17 languages, including Arabic, Mandarin, German and Spanish, to help protect you from these scams. These new resources make it easier for culturally and linguistically diverse communities to stay informed and avoid getting caught out.
Job scam losses were a huge $24.4 million in 2023, but thanks to Scamwatch, you can be better prepared. They’ve got loads of tips to keep you safe. If you follow their scam prevention tips or watch their simple videos, you will soon learn to spot a scam before it happens.
How to avoid scams
- Be cautious of jobs that require payment or promise easy money — these may be scams designed to steal your funds and personal information.
- Verify the identity of those contacting you, as scammers often impersonate reputable companies and recruitment agencies.
- Be wary of unsolicited job offers through encrypted messaging platforms such as WhatsApp or Telegram.
- Ignore requests for upfront payments via bank transfer or cryptocurrency.
- Do not send personal documents unless you’re certain of the employer’s legitimacy.
- Avoid letting others use your bank account, as this could lead to criminal charges.
Three simple steps to protect yourself
- STOP — Don’t share money or personal details if uncertain. Scammers create urgency; take your time.
- CHECK — Verify the authenticity of calls or texts by contacting organisations directly.
- REPORT — Act promptly if you suspect a scam. Contact your bank immediately and report scams to the National Anti-Scam Centre at scamwatch.gov.au.
In short, always check if the employer is legit and avoid any job that asks for money upfront or personal details too soon. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is! Stick to trusted job sites and talk to friends or support services if unsure. Protect yourself by doing a little research before committing — it’ll save you a lot of hassle down the line!