Hays warns APAC job seekers of rising recruitment scams

HONG KONG, CHINA – The Hong Kong office of global staffing firm Hays issued a critical warning to job seekers in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region about an alarming increase in recruitment scams.
These scams are deceiving individuals by offering high-paying jobs or quick income with minimal effort, exploiting the trust of those seeking employment opportunities.
Key indicators of recruitment scams
In a statement on its website, Hays has identified several red flags that job seekers should be aware of to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Common tactics include unsolicited emails, messages, or phone calls that promise guaranteed income or job offers. Scammers frequently impersonate Hays consultants on social media or job platforms, often using suspicious profile images and lacking authentic contact details.
The company advised job seekers to “ask the individual to send you an email from their Hays email address. An email from a Hays consultant will be sent from the official Hays domain [for example, name.surname@hays.com.hk].”
Safeguarding personal information
Hays strongly emphasizes that it will never request direct payments from candidates. Job seekers are advised to be cautious if asked to provide personal information or pay fees for job details or materials. Such requests are typical strategies used by scammers to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
Furthermore, Hays warns against transferring money on behalf of others, as this could be linked to money laundering schemes. The company stresses the importance of verifying any communication through official channels to ensure authenticity.
Staying informed and vigilant
As fraudulent activities continue to rise within the recruitment sector, Hays encourages job seekers to remain vigilant and informed.
By recognizing the signs of scams and verifying communications through official channels, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to these deceptive practices.