An employment scam has reared its ugly head once again in Estcourt.
Local police are currently looking into several cases linked to the Department of Correctional Services job scam doing the rounds.
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Innocent unemployed job hunters are being scammed of money, as they are requested to make an upfront payment to be ensured an interview for a post at the local Department of Correctional Services.
The victims are informed of the vacant post by scam artists, who pretend to be representatives from the department.
Once payment reflects in the scammer’s bank account, an ‘interview date’ is issued. On the day, the victims present themselves for the said interview, only then do they realise it is a hoax.
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Early in 2016, this very same employment scam was brought to the attention of local police and the Estcourt News. A young female deposited R1 500 for an interview to be hired as a Warden at the local the Department of Correctional Services.
The professional-sounding employment scam artist went as far as taking the woman’s clothing sizes for a uniform. Since then police have issued a second warning to the community not to fall prey to any scams involving promises of employment.
“If you are approached with a job offer, verify with the department concerned that such person is indeed employed with that department and that they have the mandate to secure employment,” said police spokesperson, Captain Nqobile Gwala.
All government departments have recruitment policies and procedures in place.
You are advised to safeguard yourself and verify with the department concerned what their policy and procedures are.
Reputable businesses, as well as government departments, do not require payment for any job applications.
“If such a requirement is made, you should see it as a warning sign that the job offer is a hoax. Jobs cannot be bought. This would amount to corruption and both parties, the one offering the job and the one paying, can be charged,” added Captain Gwala.
If you have any helpful information about this scam, visit your nearest police station and report it.
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