What are the most common job scams in Nigeria?

The most common job scams include: (1) Advance fee fraud - requesting payment for applications, background checks, or training, (2) Identity theft - collecting personal information for fraudulent purposes, (3) Work-from-home scams with unrealistic promises, (4) Fake check scams involving depositing checks and wiring money back, (5) Reshipping scams involving stolen goods, and (6) Phishing scams requesting login credentials. Remember: legitimate employers never charge applicants fees.

Should I ever pay money to apply for a job?

Never pay money to apply for a job. Legitimate employers do not charge applicants for application processing, background checks, training, equipment, uniforms, or job placement. Any request for payment is a major red flag indicating a scam. Real companies cover these costs as part of their hiring process.

What personal information is safe to share when applying for jobs?

Safe to share: full name, professional email, phone number, city and state, LinkedIn profile, education and work history, skills and certifications. Share only after verification: full address, date of birth, references. Never share until final offer stage: bank account numbers, credit cards, National ID/BVN, passport copies, tax IDs, or pension numbers. Create separate sections in your resume for different stages of the hiring process.

What are red flags in job postings I should watch for?

Major red flags include: no company name or vague information, unrealistic salary offers, poor grammar and spelling, generic email addresses (Gmail/Yahoo), vague job descriptions, no interview process mentioned, emphasis on easy money or work from home, immediate hiring without vetting, urgent pressure to respond, requests for payment, and reluctance to provide company details.

Where is it safe to meet for job interviews?

Safe locations: company offices during business hours, professional co-working spaces, hotel meeting rooms or business centers, video interviews from home, public coffee shops for preliminary meetings. Unsafe locations: private residences, isolated areas, hotel rooms (not meeting rooms), vehicles, empty buildings after hours. Always tell someone where you're going and when to expect you back.

How can I verify if a company is legitimate?

Verification steps: (1) Check if company has a legitimate website with company information, (2) Search for company reviews online, (3) Verify physical address exists, (4) Search for news about the company, (5) Check social media presence and activity, (6) Look for CAC registration in Nigeria, (7) Call the company directly using numbers from their official website, (8) Check with professional networks and LinkedIn.

When should I share my bank account information with an employer?

Share banking information only after: receiving written job offer, accepting the position officially, completing background checks, signing employment contract, and ideally after starting your first day. Never share online banking passwords, debit/credit card numbers, or provide banking information during application or interview stages. Legitimate employers only need direct deposit information after you're officially hired.

What should I do if I suspect a job posting is a scam?

Immediate actions: (1) Click the Report button on NaijaJob job listing, (2) Email detailed report to fraud@naijajob.com.ng with screenshots and evidence, (3) Do not engage further with the poster, (4) Warn others if you can do so safely, (5) Report to EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) at efccnigeria.org, (6) Report to Nigerian Police cybercrime unit. Include job post link, screenshots, suspicious behavior details, and timeline in your report.

What is advance fee fraud and how do I avoid it?

Advance fee fraud is when scammers request payment for application processing, background checks, training materials, equipment, uniforms, or job guarantee before hiring. Avoid it by: never paying fees to apply for jobs, refusing requests for upfront payments, researching company legitimacy, verifying job offers independently, and reporting any payment requests. Remember: if someone asks for money to give you a job, it's a scam.

How can employers protect themselves from fraudulent candidates?

Employer protection measures: conduct thorough background checks with consent, verify employment history through references, confirm educational qualifications with institutions, check professional licenses and certifications, use structured interview processes, verify identity documents, conduct multiple interview rounds, check references thoroughly, and use professional screening services. Document all verification steps.

What should I do if I've already fallen victim to a job scam?

Immediate steps if scammed: (1) Stop all communication with scammer, (2) Contact your bank immediately if you shared financial information, (3) File police report at nearest station, (4) Report to NaijaJob at fraud@naijajob.com.ng, (5) Report to EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission), (6) Change all account passwords, (7) Monitor credit and bank statements closely, (8) Document everything - save all communications, receipts, and evidence. Act quickly to minimize damage.

Are work-from-home jobs always scams?

Not all work-from-home jobs are scams, but many scams use this as bait. Legitimate remote work exists from reputable companies. Warning signs of WFH scams: promises of easy money or get-rich-quick schemes, unrealistic salary offers, vague job descriptions, upfront payment requirements, pyramid or MLM schemes, envelope stuffing, mystery shopping requiring upfront purchases. Legitimate remote jobs have clear responsibilities, reasonable pay, proper interview processes, and verifiable employers.

Safety Tips 2025 - Protect Yourself from Job Scams

1. Safety Overview

At NaijaJob, we're committed to providing a safe and secure platform for job seekers and employers. However, like any online marketplace, it's important to stay vigilant and follow best practices to protect yourself from fraud and scams.

Our Commitment to Safety

We actively monitor the platform for suspicious activity and take immediate action against fraudulent users. However, your vigilance and reporting help us maintain a safe community.

Key Safety Principles

Never pay money to apply for a job
Protect your personal and financial information
Research companies before applying
Trust your instincts
Report suspicious activity immediately
Meet in safe, public locations for interviews

2. Safety Tips for Job Seekers

2.1 Before Applying

Do Your Research

Always research a company before applying:

Check if the company has a legitimate website
Look for company reviews online
Verify the company's physical address
Search for news about the company
Check social media presence

2.2 During Application

What to Share:

Your name and contact information
Your education and work experience
Professional references
Your resume and portfolio

What NOT to Share:

Bank account numbers
Credit card information
National ID or BVN numbers (until verified offer)
Passport copies (until verified offer)
Social security or pension numbers
Personal financial information

2.3 Communication Safety

Warning Signs in Communication

Poor grammar and spelling
Pressure to respond immediately
Requests to move communication off-platform quickly
Use of personal email addresses (Gmail, Yahoo) instead of company email
Vague job descriptions

2.4 Job Offer Verification

Before accepting a job offer:

Verify the offer is from a legitimate company
Get the offer in writing on company letterhead
Confirm all terms and conditions
Research typical salaries for the position
Ask questions about the role and company
Request time to consider the offer

3. Safety Tips for Employers

3.1 Posting Legitimate Jobs

To maintain trust and attract quality candidates:

Use your official company email
Provide detailed, accurate job descriptions
Include realistic salary ranges
Verify your company profile
Respond professionally to applications

3.2 Screening Candidates

Candidate Verification Best Practices

Verify employment history through references
Conduct background checks (with consent)
Verify educational qualifications
Check professional licenses and certifications
Use structured interview processes

3.3 Protecting Candidate Information

As an employer, you must:

Store candidate data securely
Only collect necessary information
Comply with data protection laws
Delete data when no longer needed
Never share candidate information with third parties

3.4 Interviewing Safely

Conduct interviews in professional settings
Have multiple people present during interviews
Use video interviews when appropriate
Document all interview processes
Provide clear expectations and timelines

4. Common Job Scams

Be aware of these common scam tactics:

1. Advance Fee Fraud

Scammers request payment for:

Application processing
Background checks
Training materials
Equipment or uniforms
"Guarantee" of employment

Remember: Legitimate employers never charge applicants.

2. Identity Theft

Scammers collect personal information to:

Open bank accounts
Apply for credit cards
File fraudulent tax returns
Commit other fraud

Protect: Never share sensitive documents early.

3. Work-from-Home Scams

Common tactics include:

"Make money fast" promises
Unrealistic salary offers
Vague job descriptions
Pyramid or MLM schemes
Envelope stuffing schemes

Reality Check: If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

4. Fake Check Scams

How it works:

You receive a check for "equipment"
Asked to deposit and wire money back
Check bounces, you lose money
Bank holds you responsible

Never: Deposit checks from unknown sources.

5. Reshipping Scams

Red flags:

Asked to receive packages at home
Repackage and ship items
Often involves stolen goods
You become an accomplice

Avoid: Jobs involving package forwarding.

6. Phishing Scams

Watch for:

Emails requesting login credentials
Fake NaijaJob communications
Links to fake login pages
Urgent action requests

Remember: We never ask for passwords via email.

5. Red Flags to Watch For

Critical Warning Signs

Immediately be cautious if you encounter:

5.1 Job Posting Red Flags

No company name or vague company information
Unrealistic salary for the role
Poor grammar and spelling errors
Generic email addresses (Gmail, Yahoo)
Vague job descriptions
No interview process mentioned
"Easy money" or "work from home" emphasis
Immediate hiring without proper vetting

5.2 Communication Red Flags

Urgent pressure to respond or decide
Request to communicate off-platform immediately
Requests for money or financial information
Poor professional communication
Inconsistent information
Reluctance to provide company details
No phone number or only mobile numbers

5.3 Interview Red Flags

Interview in unusual locations (homes, cafes)
No formal interview process
Hired on the spot without verification
Interviewer cannot answer basic company questions
Requests for payment during interview
Uncomfortable or inappropriate questions

5.4 Offer Red Flags

Job offer without interview
Requests for bank account information immediately
No written offer or contract
Salary significantly above market rate
Requests for upfront payment for equipment
Vague start date or job details

6. Protecting Your Personal Information

6.1 Information Safety Levels

Safe to Share (In Resume/Application)

Full name
Professional email address
Phone number (consider using a Google Voice number)
City and state (not full address)
Professional social media links (LinkedIn)
Education and work history
Professional skills and certifications

Share Only After Verification

Full home address
Date of birth
Emergency contacts
Professional references (with permission)

Never Share (Until Final Offer Stage)

Bank account numbers
Credit card information
National ID or BVN numbers
Passport numbers or copies
Tax identification numbers
Pension account numbers
Mother's maiden name

6.2 Creating a Safe Resume

Best practices for your resume:

Use a professional email address (yourname@email.com)
Include only city and state, not full street address
Consider omitting your photo to avoid discrimination
Don't include date of birth or age
Omit marital status and number of children
Don't include national ID, BVN, or passport numbers
Use a phone number you can control

6.3 Online Presence Management

Google yourself regularly to see what employers can find
Review and adjust social media privacy settings
Remove inappropriate content from public profiles
Keep professional and personal profiles separate
Be cautious about what you share publicly

7. Safe Interview Practices

7.1 Before the Interview

Verify the interview location is legitimate
Research the company thoroughly
Confirm the interviewer's identity
Share interview details with someone you trust
Plan your transportation and route
Prepare questions about the company

7.2 Interview Location Safety

Safe Interview Locations

Company offices during business hours
Professional co-working spaces
Hotel meeting rooms or business centers
Video interviews from your home
Public coffee shops (for preliminary meetings only)

Unsafe Interview Locations

Private residences
Isolated or remote locations
Hotels rooms (not meeting rooms)
Vehicles
Empty office buildings after hours

7.3 During the Interview

Stay Safe:

Arrive during daylight hours if possible
Keep your phone charged and accessible
Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave
Take note of exits and other people present
Don't accept rides from interviewers
Stay in public areas

Professional Boundaries:

Decline personal questions unrelated to the job
Report inappropriate behavior
You can refuse to answer uncomfortable questions
Ask for clarification on vague questions

7.4 Virtual Interview Safety

For video interviews:

Use legitimate video platforms (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)
Don't click suspicious links
Verify meeting details with the company
Choose a neutral background
Ensure good lighting and internet connection
Test your equipment beforehand

8. Payment and Financial Safety

CRITICAL RULE

Never, under any circumstances, pay money to apply for a job or receive a job offer.

Legitimate employers do NOT charge applicants for:

Application processing
Background checks
Training
Equipment
Uniforms
Job placement

8.1 Salary Payment Red Flags

Request to cash checks and send money back
Overpayment and request to return difference
Payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
Checks from third parties
Requests to use your bank account for transactions
Commission-only positions disguised as salary

8.2 Legitimate Payment Practices

Real employers will:

Pay via direct deposit to your bank account
Provide pay stubs and tax documents
Withhold appropriate taxes
Pay regularly and predictably
Never ask for your banking login credentials

8.3 When to Share Financial Information

Appropriate Timeline

Share banking information ONLY after:

Receiving a written job offer
Accepting the position
Completing background checks
Signing employment contract
Starting your first day of work

8.4 Protecting Your Financial Information

Never share your online banking password
Don't provide debit/credit card numbers
Use separate account for direct deposits initially
Monitor your accounts regularly
Report suspicious transactions immediately
Keep records of all financial communications

9. How to Report Fraud and Scams

9.1 Reporting on NaijaJob

If you encounter suspicious activity on NaijaJob:

Report Job Postings: Click the "Report" button on any job listing
Report Users: Use the report function on profiles
Report Messages: Forward suspicious messages to support
Email: Send detailed reports to fraud@naijajob.com

What to Include in Your Report

Job post or user profile link
Screenshots of communications
Details of the suspicious behavior
Any financial requests made
Timeline of events
Your contact information

9.2 Reporting to Authorities

Nigerian Authorities:

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
Website: efccnigeria.org
Email: info@efccnigeria.org
Nigerian Police Force Cybercrime Unit
Contact local police station
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
For online fraud: ncc.gov.ng

International Agencies (for cross-border fraud):

Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) - ic3.gov
FBI Internet Crime Division
Interpol

9.3 If You've Been Scammed

Immediate Action Steps

Stop all communication with the scammer
Contact your bank immediately if you shared financial info
File a police report
Report to NaijaJob - fraud@naijajob.com
Report to EFCC
Change passwords for all accounts
Monitor your credit and bank statements
Document everything - save all communications

9.4 Protecting Others

Help prevent others from being scammed:

Share your experience (anonymously if preferred)
Report the scammer to all relevant platforms
Warn others in your network
Leave reviews on company review sites
Share on social media (without personal details)

10. Additional Resources

10.1 Educational Resources

NaijaJob Blog: Regular safety tips and updates
Safety Webinars: Monthly online safety workshops
Video Tutorials: How to spot scams
Newsletter: Subscribe for safety alerts

10.2 Support

Need help or have questions?

General Support: support@naijajob.com
Safety Concerns: safety@naijajob.com
Fraud Reports: fraud@naijajob.com
Live Chat: Available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm WAT

10.3 Related Policies

Remember These Golden Rules

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
Never pay money to get a job
Protect your personal and financial information
Research before you apply
Trust your instincts
Report suspicious activity immediately
Meet in safe, public locations
Keep communication on the platform initially
Verify everything
When in doubt, walk away

Safety Tips