Fraudulent Job Offers and Fake Job Adverts on WhatsApp & Telegram.

Have you received an unsolicited WhatsApp or Telegram message from someone claiming to be a representative of Robert Hurst Group Ltd?

If you have, it is likely to be fake. Robert Hurst Group Ltd. do not initiate conversations using WhatsApp or Telegram.

We have been made aware that there are a number of fake messages being sent across WhatsApp and Telegram, where the sender impersonates recruiters and recruitment companies, including Robert Hurst Group Ltd..

Typically, they promote fake job adverts and attempt to obtain personal information and in some cases, payment details.

Similar to fake emails or texts impersonating a bank or mobile phone provider, the scammers seek to obtain your data and information by malicious actions.

This recent scam is targeting candidates who are looking for work. Fraudsters may reach out to you with job offers in order to get your personal information or request payment.

If someone contacts you on WhatsApp or Telegram claiming to be from Robert Hurst Group Ltd. and it appears to be a phishing message or a scam, please block the number and/or report the scam by forwarding it to 7726 – a free reporting service provided by phone operators.

You can find out more information on how to spot phishing messages and what action to take on the Action Fraud website, please see more information here: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report-phishing

Here are some tips on how to spot a phishing message:

- It’s a message that you weren’t expecting
- It comes from a number or email address you don’t recognise
- If it contains a link – please avoid clicking it
- It offers unrealistic salaries or working arrangements
- They are asking for money or personal details, such as your CV
- The advert is poorly written and contains spelling errors
- Please remember - Robert Hurst Group Ltd. will never charge you for work finding fees, nor do we support anyone having to pay to find work or being exposed to any costs of recruitment that should be borne by the employer.

Resources:
- National Crime Agency – Fraud
- Action Fraud (National Reporting Centre for Fraud and Cybercrime)