On October 25, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate released a report detailing the prevalent issue of job recruitment scams in China. The report identified four major types of job-related fraud and urged the public, especially job seekers, to stay vigilant and enhance their ability to recognize these scams.
Between January 2022 and August 2024, Chinese prosecution authorities brought charges against 4,708 individuals involved in various job scams. The report outlines some of the most common tactics used by scammers:
First, there are those who create fictitious job postings to lure victims into paying related fees. Investigations have shown that some scammers have developed a systematic approach to their crimes. They use labor intermediary agencies and online platforms to post fake job advertisements, exaggerating salaries and benefits to attract applicants. Some even go so far as to forge interview locations, organize fake recruitment tests, and process bogus hiring paperwork, all designed to create a false impression of successful employment. This entire process can appear remarkably legitimate, making it difficult for victims to distinguish between real and fake opportunities.
Another tactic involves criminals masquerading as “legitimate organizations.” Some criminal groups establish registered companies, set up offices in commercial buildings, and use authentic recruitment platforms to attract employees, paying social insurance premiums to project an image of a lawful operation. Behind the scenes, however, these individuals engage in illegal activities such as fraud, gambling, pyramid schemes, and illegal fundraising.
Additionally, some scammers weave elaborate lies about “paid referrals,” fabricating networks to siphon money from victims. Exploiting the aspirations of job seekers, these fraudsters advertise on internet platforms, claiming to facilitate employment at state-owned enterprises or offering assistance with residency in exchange for money, all while implying that they can provide access through unofficial channels.
Lastly, the report highlights the targeting of gig workers, where criminals take advantage of the flexible nature of their employment. Scammers use social media and short video platforms to promote ads for part-time job opportunities, such as order fulfillment, game boosting, and app testing, ultimately leading victims to financial loss.
The procuratorate advises job seekers to heighten their awareness of fraud during their job search. They should be skeptical of high-salary job offers, guard their personal information, and refrain from making any payments unless absolutely necessary. If individuals encounter fake job postings or discover that a related business is engaged in illegal activities, they should promptly report the situation to the authorities and gather evidence to protect their rights.
