Gi Group Holding warns of recruitment scams via WhatsApp in Brazil

Gi Group Holding, a multinational specializing in human resources solutions, is warning candidates about digital fraud in recruitment processes in Brazil. This action comes in response to the increase in scams such as… phishing, WhatsApp scammers and fake job postings promising “quick profits,” charging fees, or requesting banking information, taking advantage of the emotional vulnerability of those seeking professional reemployment.

In a scam currently circulating via WhatsApp, criminals are posing as recruiters for Gi Groupoffering fake job openings and requesting that candidates follow Instagram pages with the promise of remuneration.

The company clarifies that It has no relation to those messages. It emphasizes that its legitimate opportunities are only publicized through official channels (website, LinkedIn, and verified social networks). Gi Group never requests confidential data, payments, or interactions on social networks as part of selection processes, vehemently repudiating these fraudulent practices.

"If you receive suspicious messages, Do not share personal data., Block the number and report them to the platforms. To confirm real job openings, consult only the company's official channels. Gi Group is taking legal action to combat the scam, and awareness is essential to prevent more victims," advises Cristiane Lopes Ichiyama, Operations Manager at Gi Group, the temporary and permanent staffing unit of Gi Group Holding.

With the migration of selection processes to online environments, criminals have been using increasingly sophisticated techniques to extort information or financial resources. According to data from Gi Group Holding Global's Personal Data Protection, 1 in 3 people You've already been targeted by attempted fraud via fake messages or emails, and only... 55,5% They know how to act in these situations.

"Scams exploit everything from anxiety over opportunities to the financial pressure on the unemployed," says Cristiane. "Criminals create attractive ads—like job openings with high salaries and zero experience requirements—fake profiles on social media, and even websites for fictitious agencies, using names similar to real companies to gain credibility."

Common tactics of scammers

• Fake job offersJob postings published on social media, WhatsApp, or unofficial websites with unrealistic promises (e.g., "R$20,000/month for remote work requiring no qualifications").
• Email PhishingMessages with malicious links or attachments contaminated by malware, disguised as interview invitations.
• Fee CollectionRequests for payment to "guarantee a position" or "cover the costs of the selection process".
• Identity fraudUse of logos and email domains similar to the official ones.

Warning signs and tips to protect yourself

To help candidates, the campaign highlights key considerations and essential guidance:

1. Recruitment never charges fees.Be wary of any payment request, however small.
2. Verify the company.Search the company name in search engines, check the official website (valid domain), and look for reviews on Reclame Aqui or LinkedIn.
3. Sensitive data is prohibited.CPF number, bank account number, or passwords never Should be shared in the initial stages.
4. Suspicious linksDon't click on long or unknown URLs. Verify official emails by their domains. used.