VTB warned about a new fraud scheme involving job offers

Fraudsters, disguised as employers, extort large sums from new employees. The victims are job search website users who transfer money under the pretext of "help." Dmitry Revyakin, Vice President of VTB Bank and Head of the Corporate Interests Protection Department of the Security Department, told Izvestia on June 11.

According to him, fraudsters post vacancies on websites, for example, an assistant director, quickly "hire" a candidate and conclude a fake contract. They imitate work through messengers, and then ask you to transfer money under a plausible pretext (for the treatment of relatives), promising to return the funds. After the transfer, the attackers either demand more money or disappear.

"Such schemes exploit the trust of people who are looking for work. Criminals do not just create the appearance of employment, they artificially form a boss-subordinate relationship so that the victim can psychologically more easily agree to their terms. When a new "leader" asks for help with medications for a sick mother or other personal problems, many perceive this as a sign of trust and an opportunity to prove themselves," Revyakin said.

He noted that before accepting a job offer, it is necessary to make sure of the reliability of the employer: find the official data of the company and check its activities, not limited to communicating in messengers. It is also important never to send money, even if they guarantee a refund or compensation — a serious employer will never ask for it.

"Be careful with suspicious phone numbers, as scammers often change them and hide under false names. If you are offered to pay for something before employment, this is a clear sign of deception," concluded Revyakin.

Numbered background: Victims of phone scams have been waiting for cases to be filed for months

What influences the detection of such crimes?

In February, the Department for combating the illegal use of information and communication technologies of the Russian Interior Ministry reported that intruders were trying to get parents' money by influencing children. It is clarified that the scammers pose as employees of the Russian Post, Gosuslug, and the FSB and convince children of the need to "declare" the family's valuables.