You don’t need a credit card number to get a job.
That’s exactly what scammers were after, though, in a recent phishing attempt exposed by the Better Business Bureau.
The BBB in Metro Atlanta reports that scam artists posted fake job listing online for positions with ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions — a national nonprofit, BBB-accredited business with an A-plus rating and a 50-year legacy.
The job postings, placed on Craiglist, requested credit card numbers from job applicants.
The BBB warns job seekers to be wary when using social media and online sites such as Craigslist.
“Be sure to check the actual website of the company posting the position to verify it actually exists,” the BBB cautions. “If you don’t see it on their site, chances are it’s a scam.”
Don’t give out too much personal information until you are hired, and never give our Social Security of bank account numbers over the phone, Internet or email.
Also, many scams use names that are similar to those of reputable companies to trick job applicants. If you’re not sure about a company, check it out first at bbb.org. And apply for the job through the actual company website whenever possible.