How to spot fake job adverts
The warning signs of job scams, and what to do if an advert looks wrong.
The most important rule
A real employer doesn't ask you to pay to get a job. Be very careful with any advert or message that asks for money for an application, an interview, training, a uniform, a medical check or "processing".
Warning signs
- A salary that's much higher than usual for the work.
- No company name, or a name you can't find anywhere else.
- Only a phone number or a personal email address, with no office or website.
- Pressure to decide or pay quickly.
- A job offer without an interview.
- Requests for your ID, bank details or mobile money PIN early on.
- Spelling mistakes and vague duties.
How to check an employer
Look for the company's own website and see whether the job is listed there. Call the company using a number from its website, not from the advert. Ask people you trust whether they know the employer. On Kaziplat, every job links to the advert it came from, so you can check the original.
If you see a fake advert
Don't pay and don't share personal details. On Kaziplat, use the report option on the job page so we can check it and take it down. If you've lost money, report it to the police.
More guides
- How to write a CV employers read
- How to write an application letter
- How to prepare for a job interview
- How to apply for a job by email
- Documents to have ready before you apply
- Finding your first job after college
- Applying for government jobs in Tanzania
- What to do after you apply
- Building the skills employers ask for