Real Name, Fake Interview Request: How to Spot Job Scams That Look Legit
By Heather Coleman-Voss, CPCC, CEC, CPLC
Job seekers and those hiring - this new job scam uses the names of real recruiters and real companies to trick smart, qualified people. It's easy to miss the red flags during a job search, especially when scammers deliberately build just enough trust to override your instincts.
I’ve seen this scam show up multiple times in my clients' inboxes. What makes it especially dangerous is that the recruiter being impersonated is real. You can find them on LinkedIn. They're listed on the company's website. They may even have articles published or a professional presence on YouTube or TikTok.
It's almost believable - but it's 100% fake because the "recruiter" who emailed you is being impersonated.
What Makes This Scam So Convincing?
The scammers are getting smarter. They're studying how recruiters talk, copying job titles from actual listings, and using just enough corporate polish to appear legitimate.
They might say:
"I saw your resume on Indeed and was impressed."
"We're hiring for a remote Graphic Designer. Part-time or full-time - your choice!"
"I'm available Monday to Friday, 9-5. Pick a time to talk."
They include a wide pay range ($25 to $50/hour) but give you no real job description. They offer no link to apply. They don't ask for a portfolio. The grammar and overall presentation are atrocious (different sized fonts and crazy spacing).
These scammers also use email addresses like reply-to+randomcode@wixforms.com or hrmanager@gmail.com.
Once you know what to look for, it's laughably bad. But when you are job hunting, tired, and overwhelmed, it can be dangerously easy to explain away your gut instincts.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Stolen Identity but Wrong Contact Info
The biggest red flag is when someone claims to work for a real company but emails from a suspicious domain. Real recruiters use company email addresses ending in @company.com, .org, or .gov - never WixForms, Gmail, or random third-party services.
Unrealistic Pay Ranges and Flexibility
A $25-50/hour range represents a 100% difference in compensation - no legitimate company offers ranges this wide. Similarly, real jobs specify whether they're part-time or full-time, not "either one, your choice."
Missing Job Application Basics
Professional recruiters always request your resume, cover letter, and portfolio (for creative roles). They provide links to official application portals and include actual job descriptions with specific requirements and
When someone claims to be "available anytime between 9-5, Monday through Friday," that's a major red flag. Senior recruiters and HR managers are extremely busy professionals who schedule specific appointment times, often weeks out.
Generic Language with No Personalization
Real recruiters reference specific aspects of your background, mention concrete job requirements, and use professional formatting. Scam emails are filled with buzzwords like "innovative and dedicated" without any substance.
Suspicious Links and Calls-to-Action
Legitimate recruiters direct you to official company career pages or established application systems. Scammers use "Respond Now" buttons that lead to phishing sites designed to steal your personal information.
What a Real Recruiter Email Looks Like:
Uses a company email domain (e.g., jane@company.com)
References an actual job listing with a link to the careers page
Matches the exact job title found on the company website
Includes a way to apply through a secure, official portal
Requests resume, cover letter, and portfolio if applicable
Shares specific scheduling links (like Calendly) with limited availability
Has a professional email signature with contact information
Provides concrete details about the role and requirements
Why These Scams Exist
These scams aren’t random—they’re strategic. The people behind them aren’t just wasting your time for fun. They’re after something valuable: your personal information, your money, or access to your accounts.
Most often, job scams fall into one or more of these categories:
Phishing for data – They want your full name, address, phone number, date of birth, and sometimes even your Social Security number. With enough of your information, they can steal your identity or sell it to others.
Financial theft – Some scams ask you to “prepay” for training materials, software, or even company equipment—then disappear.
Fake check scams – A “company” sends you a check to deposit and asks you to buy gift cards or send part of it back. The check bounces, and you’re left responsible for the money.
Access to your device or accounts – If they convince you to download an app, log into a fake portal, or share credentials, they may be setting up access to your files, passwords, or bank accounts.
Money laundering or criminal activity – In the worst cases, they offer “work from home” jobs that actually involve you unknowingly helping them move stolen funds or goods, putting you legally at risk.
Understanding the why behind these scams can help take the sting out of falling for one. Scammers are intentionally preying on people during moments of hope, urgency, or financial stress. They craft their language, timing, and approach to make you question your gut. Always trust your gut.
If You Fell For It - You're Not Alone
These scams are targeting job seekers who are hopeful, stressed, financially strained, and often under-slept. That means nearly everyone in the middle of a long search. When my clients forward me these messages and emails, it's because they suspect something is wrong. And they are right. Scammers are getting more manipulative and strategic in their tactics. They're exploiting the vulnerability that comes with job hunting - the desire to find that "dream job" and move your career forward.
Protect Yourself and Others
If you receive an email from a recruiter that seems suspicious or makes you question its validity, look them up on LinkedIn and contact them directly through the platform or their official company website. Real recruiters won't mind the extra verification step.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off - even if you can't pinpoint exactly what - take time to investigate before responding.
Share your experiences. When you encounter these scams, warn others in your network. We can help protect other job seekers through awareness and shared experience.
Share This
If you know someone job searching, especially someone new to job search or returning after time away, please share this with them. And remember, if you've been targeted and fell for the scam, you’re not the first person this has happened to and you won’t be the last. That’s why awareness matters. The more people who recognize these tactics, the less effective they become.
Let's keep your energy focused on real opportunities that deserve your time and energy. If you’ve experienced something similar and want to talk through it - or need help navigating the job search and moving forward in your career - I have a few client spaces available for the summer. I’m here.
Ready to transform those limiting beliefs into stepping stones for growth? Your inner critic doesn't have to have the last word. Take the first step toward the career and life you deserve by scheduling a free Discovery Call at www.careersavvycoaching.com. Together, we'll explore your journey, discuss my coaching packages and costs, and create a path forward that honors both who you are and who you're becoming.
