Cybersecurity Corner Highlight – “The Great Remote Job Rip-Off”

Threat actors (aka hackers) continue to impersonate recruiters and employers to target potential job seekers with fake or unrealistic remote job offers. They often send unsolicited emails or text messages that promise high pay for little work, require payment to get a job or training, lure targets with bad checks to buy fake work equipment or supplies, involve repackaging or shipping items often purchased with stolen credit cards, or request personal data, leading to financial loss and identity theft. Over the past month, there has been an observable increase in remote job scams targeting residents.

Threat actors will often claim a quick turnaround to convince their targets to act quickly and apply by stating that applications will be reviewed within two to 24 hours. Clicking on the “CLICK HERE TO APPLY” directs targets to a page designed to capture sensitive information. Copyright symbols at the bottom of the email are often hyperlinked to a phishing page also designed to steal account credentials. Below is a real example of such a phishing email. Don’t take the bait!

Always report scams and other malicious cyber activity to the FBI’s IC3 and also to the NJCCIC.