A Gi Group Holding, a multinational specialized in human resources solutions, warns candidates about digital fraud in recruitment processes in Brazil. The action arises in response to the growth of scams such as phishing, WhatsApp scammers, and false job openings that promise ‘quick earnings,’ fees, or requests for banking information, taking advantage of the emotional vulnerability of those seeking professional repositioning.
In a scam circulating recently via WhatsApp, criminals are posing as recruiters from Gi Group, offering fake job vacancies and asking candidates to follow Instagram pages with the promise of remuneration.
The company clarifies that it has no relationship with these messages and emphasizes that its legitimate opportunities are only advertised on official channels (website, LinkedIn, and verified social media). Gi Group never asks for confidential data, payments, or social media interactions as part of selection processes, vehemently condemning these fraudulent practices.
“If you receive suspicious messages, do not share personal data, block the number, and report to the platforms. To confirm real vacancies, consult exclusively the company’s official channels. Gi Group is taking legal measures to combat the scam, and awareness is essential to avoid more victims,” advises Cristiane Lopes Ichiyama, operations manager at Gi Group, the temporary and permanent unit of Gi Group Holding.
With the migration of selection processes to the online environment, criminals have been using increasingly sophisticated techniques to extort information or financial resources. According to data from the Personal Data Protection of Gi Group Holding Global, 1 in 3 people has already been the target of fraud attempts via messages or fake emails, and only 55.5% know how to act in these situations.
“Scams exploit everything from the anxiety for opportunities to the financial pressure of the unemployed. Criminals create attractive ads – such as positions with high salaries and zero experience requirements – fake profiles on social networks and even sites of fictitious agencies, using names similar to real companies to gain credibility”, says Cristiane.
Common Tactics of Scammers
- False job offers: Positions posted on social networks, WhatsApp, or unofficial websites, with unrealistic promises (e.g., “R$ 20 thousand/month for remote work with no qualifications”).
- Phishing by email: Messages with malicious links or attachments contaminated with malware, disguised as interview invitations.
- Fee demands: Requesting amounts to “secure the position” or cover “selection process costs”.
- Identity forgery: Use of logos and email domains similar to official ones.
Warning signs and tips to protect yourself
To help candidates, the campaign highlights key points to pay attention to and essential guidance.
- Recruitment never charges fees: Be wary of any request for payment, even if small.
- Check the company: Research the company name on search engines, check the official website (valid domain), and look for reviews on Reclame Aqui or LinkedIn.
- Sensitive data is prohibited: CPF number, bank account, or passwords should never be shared in initial stages.
- Suspicious links: Do not click on long or unknown URLs. Verify official emails from the used domains.
