In the current digital era, where opportunities and information abound at the tap of a screen, scammers and fraudsters continually devise inventive methods to prey on unsuspecting individuals. Recently, Oakleaf Partnership encountered such deceit, as imposters masqueraded as the company via WhatsApp, iMessage and text, exploiting their identity.
DISCLAIMER: We only recruit for HR, Reward, Payroll, Technology Change and Transformation professions and will always contact you initially via phone call or email.
This article aims to inform readers about this fraudulent activity and provide essential tips on how to avoid falling victim to such scams.
The Rising Threat of Impersonation Scams
Oakleaf Partnership has become the target of scammers seeking to deceive job seekers. These criminals are using platforms like text messages and usually WhatsApp to impersonate Oakleaf Partnership and offer enticing opportunities, often under the guise of a person named “Emily” and “Tiffany”.
The scam typically promises remote work with daily paid wages, luring individuals who are seeking flexible job options.
Identifying the Red Flags
As job seekers navigate the digital landscape for potential employment opportunities, it’s crucial to be vigilant and watch out for red flags that might indicate a scam:
- Unsolicited Messages: If you receive a text message or WhatsApp message from someone claiming to represent Oakleaf Partnership, especially if you haven’t applied or registered with them, be cautious – we would never reach out to anyone via WhatsApp or Text without a prior phone or email conversation.
- Too Good to Be True Offers: Scammers often dangle offers that seem too good to be true, like remote jobs with exceptionally high daily wages. If the offer sounds unrealistically attractive, take a step back and investigate further.
- Poor Grammar and Spelling: Impersonators may not pay attention to language quality. If you notice numerous grammatical errors or awkward language in the messages, it’s a warning sign.
- Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to provide personal information or make hasty decisions. Oakleaf Partnership’s team of recruitment specialists would never pressure you into a decision or to give personal details.
Protecting Yourself from Impersonation Scams
To shield yourself from falling victim from an impersonation scam, consider these proactive measures:
- Verify the source: Contact Oakleaf Partnership directly through our official website or call this number: 0207 220 7030 to confirm the legitimacy of any job details you receive.
- Never share personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive information like your bank details, or passwords through text messages or WhatsApp – we would never ask you for either of these things.
- Be alert if you are asked for payment (administrative or otherwise): Oakleaf Partnership will never ask you the candidate to pay an administrative cost for the fulfilment of employment.
- Research the details: Check if the details match what’s presented in the message. Genuine job opportunities will have a consistent presence across multiple platforms.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut feeling. Scammers often prey on individuals who are too eager or desperate for employment.
- Never click on any links if it feels suspicious.
- Report the scam by texting 7726.
Bottom Line
As technology continues to reshape the way we seek employment, scams and fraudulent activities are unfortunately on the rise. The Oakleaf Partnership impersonation scam serves as a stark reminder that scammers will exploit any opportunity to deceive individuals seeking jobs.
As technology continues to reshape the way we seek employment, scams and fraudulent activities are unfortunately on the rise. The Oakleaf Partnership impersonation scam serves as a stark reminder that scammers will exploit any opportunity to deceive individuals seeking jobs.
We are proud and protective of the relationships we have with our clients and candidates so we hope by keeping you informed, vigilant, and cautious, job seekers can safeguard themselves from falling prey to deceitful tactics.
Oakleaf Partnership will always prioritise your safety and provide clear channels of communication, ensuring a secure job-seeking experience.
Final Steps
What to do if you uncover a scam If you uncover what you believe to be a scam, or are a victim of a scam you should contact:
• Your local police if you suspect a crime has been committed.
• Action Fraud – the UK’s national fraud and internet crime prevention centre.
• National Cyber Security Centre – provide guidance and support on cyber security incidents.
• JobsAware – a joint industry and law enforcement organisation (of which APSCo is a part) created to raise awareness and combat criminal activities in the recruitment sector.
• Notify the relevant Trade Body, APSCo, FCSA, Professional Passport and Companies House, if appropriate.
