I hope you will make “The Job Scam Report” your go-to podcast as part of your overall job search portal for knowledge and awareness. Security is necessary for today’s job search while applying sound strategies to find your next opportunity. Success is not possible without safety.
In this episode, Kerry Tomlinson offers her perspective, knowledge, and expertise to help job seekers spot deepfake videos.
- Background: Award-winning news reporter focusing on cyber issues.
- Experience: 10 years in cybersecurity reporting, and previously a TV news reporter.
- Special focus on deepfake videos.
Deepfake Videos and Job Scams
Explanation of Deepfakes
- Deepfakes are manipulated media (videos or images) using AI.
- Commonly used in romance scams, predicted to transition into job scams.
- Scammers use apps to create fake live video calls with victims.
Psychological Manipulation
- Victims want to believe the scams due to emotional needs (e.g., need for a job, loneliness).
- Social engineering plays a critical role in exploiting emotional vulnerabilities.
Evolution of Job Scams
Initial Phases
- Scammers create fake jobs to gather personal information.
- Development of fake profiles on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
Current Trends
- Deepfake videos are used to enhance scam authenticity.
- Scammers impersonating real individuals or creating entirely fake personas.
Dangers and Implications of Personal Information Theft
- Scammers' primary goal: collect personal information, including bank details.
- Direct deposit scams: Asking for bank information, leading to theft.
- Fake check scams: Victims deposit fake checks and are asked to return money.
Malware and System Infiltration
- Scammers use malware to steal passwords, track keystrokes, and gather sensitive data.
- Victims inadvertently download malware through links or attachments provided by scammers.
Employer and Job Seeker Challenges and Employer Perspective
- Use AI in hiring processes, e.g., filtering candidates, pre-screening.
- Risks of hiring fake employees or vendors.
- Need for clear distinctions between legitimate companies and scammers.
Job Seeker Perspective
- Increased need for vigilance and verification of job offers.
- Recognizing red flags in job applications and interviews (or a lack of an application process) is essential.
- Risk of falling victim to scams due to emotional desperation or financial need.
Solutions and Preventative Measures
For Job Seekers
- Verify all job-related communications and offers.
- Avoid sharing personal information without due diligence.
- Be wary of red flags such as immediate asks for money or personal details.
For Employers
- Distinguish clearly from scams in communication and processes.
- Encourage job seekers to verify information.
Reporting and Community Awareness
Reporting Scams
- Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and IC3 (FBI).
- Importance of community awareness and sharing scam experiences.
Encouragement for Caution
- Lead with suspicion and verify all aspects of job offers.
- Explore AI to understand and combat scam tactics.
Conclusion
- There is a continued need for cybersecurity awareness and education.
- Emphasis on verification and cautious engagement with potential employers.
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