If you’re desperate for a job, you’re a target — and scammers know it. Fake job ads are all over Facebook, WhatsApp, and even on job sites. In South Africa, job scams are a serious issue, especially for youth and recent graduates. But here’s the good news: you can outsmart them.
In this episode, we break down how to identify, avoid, and report job scams before they waste your time — or your money.
1. If They Ask for Money, It’s a Scam
No legit employer will ask you to:
- Pay for “training”
- Buy uniforms before you start
- Pay admin or application fees
🚫 Rule: If it costs money before you’re hired, walk away.
2. Too Good to Be True? It Probably Is
Be cautious of ads promising:
- “R10,000 per week, no experience needed!”
- “Work from home, unlimited earnings!”
- “100 jobs available immediately!”
Scammers lure with unrealistic salaries or vague job descriptions. Real companies are clear about requirements, duties, and pay.
3. Check the Contact Info
Legit companies use:
- Business emails (e.g., hr@company.co.za — not gmail.com)
- Company phone numbers
- Official websites
🚩 If you’re only dealing with a random WhatsApp number or Gmail address, investigate further.
4. Research the Company
Before applying or attending interviews:
- Google the company
- Check if they have a website or LinkedIn presence
- Search: “Company Name + Scam” and see what pops up
No info online? That’s a red flag.
5. Trust Your Gut
If something feels off — pushy messages, poor grammar, no clear company info — trust that instinct. Scammers rush you and discourage questions. Legit employers give you time to think.
6. Report It
Help others by reporting scams to:
- SA Fraud Prevention Service: www.safps.org.za
- Scamwatch SA
- Alert others on local Facebook groups or forums
Screenshots can go a long way in warning your community.
7. Share This Info
A lot of scams work because victims are uninformed. Share this episode with friends, siblings, or your local youth group. One post could save someone from a huge loss.
Final Word
Being unemployed is stressful. Scammers prey on that. But knowledge is your shield. Ask questions, stay alert, and remember: a real job won’t ask you to pay for it.
