Peterborough jobseekers warned over recruitment scams during lockdown

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) are warning residents, in particular those whose jobs have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, that fraudsters are using recruitment apps and websites to target jobseekers.

These fraudsters have been cold-calling residents and claiming to be from a mobile phone network. They go on to explain to their victim that they need to participate in a ‘mystery shopper’ test in order to pass the recruitment process.

Under the guise of the ‘mystery shopper’ test, the victims are persuaded to take out a new phone contract using their own personal and financial details, then are directed to a ‘drop-off point’ to deliver the phone and SIM card to a ‘colleague’ of the caller, with their assurance that the contract will be terminated.

In reality, the victim will never hear from the fraudster again, and will be left with a phone contract they are liable for. This is a ploy to access the victim’s details, which in some cases have been used to take out loans, for which the victim is also liable.

To protect yourself against scams:

1. Don't include personal information such as your full address, date of birth or NI number on your CV or public profiles on recruitment sites.

2. Verify that the employer/recruiter is who they say they are by contacting the employer using information from their official website or verified social media accounts.

For further advice on scams, please call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline: 0808 223 11 33.

To report a scam, please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use the online reporting tool at www.actionfraud.police.uk