For the record:
8:52 a.m. Jan. 12, 2023: An earlier version of this article incorrectly attributed a quote about a search quality team from Indeed to Spencer Dandes of Global Gateway Advisors, a PR firm that represents the company. The statement came directly from Indeed.
Two days after applying for a job on LinkedIn, Sandi Pounder received the good, if surprising, news.
“I am glad to inform you that due to your level of experience and your working skills, the company has decided to hire you as one of our Data Analyst (REMOTE),” the email read. “On behalf of our firm, I congratulate you on your achievement.”
A subsequent email from HR told her she would receive a long list of equipment at her home in Monta Vista, Colo. — including an Apple iMac Pro, external hard drive, file cabinets, HP LaserJet Printer — that she could purchase using a check that would be mailed to her.
In the span of 48 hours, she had submitted a resume, filled out a list of extensive interview questions, and received a job offer.
The process couldn’t have gone more smoothly — until she opened the official offer letter. It was addressed to “Greeshma.”
Pounder quickly discovered she was the target of a job scam, an elaborate ruse to trick desperate job-seekers into handing over their personal information, and in many cases, their money.
Scams have been around for as long as people have, but employment scams have skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic as remote positions become the norm…
