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how to verify a job posting is legitimate
Finding the right role can feel like hunting for treasure, but the internet is also full of fake listings that waste time and expose personal data. Knowing how to verify a job posting is legitimate protects you from scams and keeps your job search efficient. In this guide we break down the warning signs, walk you through a step‑by‑step checklist, and give you actionable tools—including several free Resumly utilities—to confirm that a posting is real before you hit send.
Why verifying job postings matters
According to the Federal Trade Commission, job‑related scams increased 31% in 2023, costing victims an estimated $1.2 billion. The most common tactics involve phishing emails, bogus salary offers, and requests for upfront fees. Even reputable platforms can be hijacked by malicious actors. By learning how to verify a job posting is legitimate, you reduce the risk of identity theft, protect your reputation, and focus your energy on genuine opportunities.
Common red flags to watch for
| Red flag | What it means |
|---|---|
| Generic greeting (e.g., "Dear Candidate") | Scammers rarely know your name. |
| Unrealistic salary (far above market) | Often a lure to get you interested quickly. |
| Requests for money or personal documents | Legitimate employers never ask for payment or copies of your ID before an interview. |
| Poor grammar and spelling | Many fake postings are hastily written. |
| Non‑company email domain (e.g., @gmail.com) | Real recruiters use corporate email addresses. |
| Vague job description | Lack of specific responsibilities suggests a placeholder. |
If you spot any of these, pause and investigate further.
Step‑by‑step verification checklist
1. Check the company’s online presence
- Visit the official website. Look for an "About Us" page, physical address, and contact phone number.
- Search the company on LinkedIn. A legitimate firm will have a company page with employee profiles.
- Google the company name + "scam" or "fraud" to see if others have reported issues.
Pro tip: Use the Resumly Career Guide to learn how to research employers effectively.
2. Scrutinize the email address and contact info
- Verify that the sender’s email matches the company domain (e.g., @example.com, not @gmail.com).
- Hover over any links to see the actual URL before clicking.
- Call the listed phone number (if provided) to confirm the recruiter’s identity.
3. Analyze the job description language
- Look for specific responsibilities, required skills, and clear qualifications.
- Compare the posting with similar roles on the company’s career page.
- Beware of overly generic titles like "Assistant" without context.
4. Verify the posting source
- Official career pages are the safest source. If you found the job on a third‑party site, cross‑check on the company’s own site.
- Use the Job Search feature to see if the role appears in Resumly’s curated listings.
5. Use tools and resources
- Run the posting through a reverse image search if it includes a logo.
- Check the URL with ATS Resume Checker to see if the posting is likely filtered by applicant tracking systems (a sign of legitimacy).
- Use the Buzzword Detector to spot excessive jargon that may indicate a low‑effort scam.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Verify the company’s domain and contact details.
- Keep personal information (SSN, bank details) private until you have a formal offer.
- Trust your instincts; if something feels off, investigate further.
Don’t:
- Send money for background checks or training fees.
- Share your full resume on public forums.
- Reply to vague messages that lack a clear job title.
Real‑world case studies
Case 1: The "Remote Data Analyst" scam
A candidate received an email from [email protected] offering a $120k remote analyst role. The email asked for a $200 processing fee to unlock the contract. By checking the domain, the applicant discovered that careerboost.com was a parked domain with no corporate site. The candidate reported the scam to the FTC and saved both money and personal data.
Case 2: The legitimate hidden gem
A job seeker found a posting for a "Junior UX Designer" on a niche design board. The posting lacked a salary range, but the company name matched a small startup listed on Crunchbase. A quick LinkedIn search confirmed the hiring manager’s profile. The applicant applied using Resumly’s AI Resume Builder, landed an interview, and secured the role.
How Resumly can help you stay safe while job hunting
Resumly isn’t just an AI resume builder; it’s a career‑safety hub. Here are three ways the platform supports verification:
- AI‑Powered Job Search – The Job Search tool aggregates listings from verified sources, reducing exposure to fraudulent posts.
- ATS Resume Checker – Upload your resume to see if it passes common applicant tracking filters, a sign that the job posting is likely using a professional ATS.
- Career Personality Test – Align your strengths with roles that truly fit, so you spend time only on positions that match your profile.
By integrating these tools, you can focus on how to verify a job posting is legitimate without juggling multiple platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can I tell if a recruiter’s LinkedIn profile is fake? A: Look for a complete work history, endorsements, and connections with real employees of the company. Fake profiles often have few connections and generic photos.
Q2: Are job boards like Indeed or Glassdoor safe? A: They are generally reputable, but scammers can still post on them. Always cross‑check the listing on the employer’s official site.
Q3: What should I do if a job posting asks for my bank account? A: Do not provide any banking information. Legitimate employers never request this before a formal offer.
Q4: Can I use a free tool to verify a company’s address? A: Yes. Websites like Google Maps and the Better Business Bureau can confirm physical locations.
Q5: How often do scammers change their tactics? A: Very frequently. According to a 2024 report by Cybersecurity Ventures, job‑related phishing attacks increased 42% year‑over‑year. Stay updated with the latest red flags.
Q6: Is it okay to ask the recruiter for references? A: Absolutely. A legitimate recruiter will gladly provide contact information for current employees or a company HR line.
Q7: Should I accept a job offer over email without a video interview? A: Be cautious. Most reputable companies conduct at least one live interview. If the offer comes too quickly, verify the sender’s identity.
Q8: How does Resumly’s Chrome Extension help with verification? A: The Chrome Extension flags suspicious job listings while you browse, offering instant safety tips.
Mini‑conclusion
Mastering how to verify a job posting is legitimate is a critical skill in today’s digital hiring landscape. By following the checklist, watching for red flags, and leveraging Resumly’s free tools, you can protect your personal data, avoid scams, and focus on opportunities that truly match your career goals.
Take the next step
Ready to apply with confidence? Build a standout resume with the AI Resume Builder, run a quick ATS Resume Check, and start searching verified listings with Resumly’s Job Search. Your next legitimate job is just a click away!
