Stay safe while job hunting

Never pay to get a job

A real employer will never ask you to pay for an interview, registration, training, a security deposit, a uniform, a laptop or a "joining kit". If anyone asks for money, it is a scam — stop responding and report the listing.

Warning signs

• An offer letter without any interview, or a salary that seems too good to be true.
• Pressure to decide or pay "today only".
• The recruiter uses a free email address but claims to be from a large company, or the company name doesn't match the email domain.
• Requests to move the conversation to an unknown app or to install software.
• Interviews held only over chat, or at a hotel or private home.
• Spelling mistakes and vague details about the role and company.

Protect your personal information

• Don't share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, card numbers or OTPs before you have a verified written offer — and never share OTPs at all.
• Don't click payment links or scan QR codes sent by a recruiter.
• Share your resume by email rather than on public groups.

Verify before you go

• Search the company's official website and check its careers page.
• Call the company's published phone number to confirm the opening.
• For in-person interviews, meet at the company's office during work hours and tell a friend or family member where you're going.

If something feels wrong

Report the listing to us with the job title and company name, and we'll review it. If you've lost money, report it immediately at cybercrime.gov.in or call the national cyber crime helpline 1930.