Protecting Yourself Online

From USAJOBS Help

USAJOBS adheres to Federal guidelines and stringent security controls to protect sensitive and personally identifiable information submitted by job seekers. Security controls are designed to ensure that applicant data is not disclosed to unauthorized personnel nor altered while being uploaded or while awaiting processing. In addition to these security measures, job seekers and applicants should proactively protect themselves online and be careful not to become victim to fraudulent activity or scams targeting those who seek federal employment.

Fraud
If you see a questionable job posting or any potential misuse of the USAJOBS website or its brand, please report the suspected fraud to USAJOBS (help@usajobs.gov).

If you think you have been a victim of fraud, read our Warning-Alert guidance and immediately report the fraud to your local police and contact USAJOBS, so steps can be taken to ensure your safety. We also recommend that you file an online report with The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C).

Scams

Federal Job Scams

Information on opportunities within the Federal Government is provided free of charge. Beware of scam artists selling such information.

Email Scams

We're all familiar with spam. But what about spoofing and phishing? Both terms refer to fraudulent emails that illegally collect personal information.

Money-Laundering & Reshipping Scams

Someone from another country needs your help transferring funds. What seems like a lucrative job offer could cost you your savings and more.

Recognizing Business Opportunity Scams

“High pay and no experience necessary.” Chances are you've seen job postings that seem too good to be true. We can help you spot the scams.

Phishing

Phishing is a type of deception designed to steal your valuable personal data. Scam artists might send millions of fraudulent e-mail messages that appear to come from Web sites you trust including USAJOBS®.

Diploma Mills
Unfortunately, some schools known as diploma mills are more interested in taking your money than providing a quality education. For frequently asked questions and tips on how to avoid diploma mill scams, check out these helpful resources:

http://www.ed.gov/students/prep/college/diplomamills/resources.html

http://www.chea.org/degreemills

http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/policy/ApplicationOfStds-04.asp

http://www.osac.state.or.us/oda/diploma_mill.html

Additional Resources

Avoiding Identity Theft

Detecting Deceptive Job Ads

Consumer Sentinel

Federal Trade Commission

Evaluating Products and Promotions

How Not to Get Hooked by a Phishing Scam

Accounts, Passwords and Security