Pay-for-referral, cashback for task completion, “recruit new members” for promotion…
Job hunting is not easy—stay alert!
You must avoid these traps!
Illegal Job Agency Trap
According to relevant laws and regulations, engaging in job agency activities without a license is a clear violation. Many job scams are organized or participated in by such “black agencies.”
Job seekers should choose human resources service agencies or platforms with proper qualifications. Check if they have a Human Resources Service License, and it’s best to select reputable and well-regulated agencies. Do not trust verbal promises from agencies—always sign a formal service agreement.
If you encounter a “black agency,” promptly report it to the Human Resources and Social Security Department. If your financial or personal safety is threatened, keep all relevant evidence and contact the police immediately.
Pre-Employment Payment Trap
Article 9 of the Labor Contract Law clearly states that employers may not charge any fees to workers under any pretext.
Article 27 of the Interim Regulations on the Human Resources Market stipulates that human resources service agencies, when recruiting on behalf of employers or providing other services, must not seek improper benefits in the name of recruitment.
Employers or agencies cannot require job seekers to pay deposits, security fees, uniform fees, material fees, or any similar charges as a condition for employment.
Referral Fee Trap
Paid “internal referrals” or guaranteed job offers are mostly false advertising and may be illegal. Job seekers must not believe scammers promising shortcuts or using “connections.” Always apply through legitimate human resources agencies or official employer channels.
Recruitment Loan Trap
Before applying to a company, job seekers should verify its qualifications through third-party platforms. If a company asks you to rent or purchase work equipment, pay fees, or take out loans as a condition for employment, refuse immediately to avoid being scammed.
Mandatory Paid Training Trap
Training costs for employees should generally be borne by the employer. Be wary of promises like “pay for training, guaranteed employment.” Don’t fall for scams where you pay for training, waste time and effort, learn little, and end up without a job.
Part-Time “Order Brushing” Trap
Part-time order brushing is a scam and illegal. Do not download unknown apps, scan suspicious QR codes, or pay any deposits.
Pyramid Scheme Recruitment Trap
Pyramid schemes have three main features: entry fees, recruiting others, and a pyramid-shaped profit structure.
Job seekers should learn to recognize pyramid schemes and avoid them. If you are deceived or harmed, report to the police and the Human Resources and Social Security Department immediately.
Pornographic Recruitment Trap
Some scams use recruitment as a cover to lure job seekers into illegal activities such as providing sexual services.
Job seekers should maintain proper career values and sharpen their ability to identify scams. Be especially cautious of job ads that promise “easy money, little work, high pay, or getting rich while lying down.” If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Personal Information Theft Trap
Protect your personal information during job searches. Do not disclose your bank card, online banking, or payment passwords. When providing copies of your ID, indicate the intended use on the document.
“Tricky” Contract Trap
Always read and sign labor contracts carefully, especially clauses related to your rights and interests—this is the best way to protect yourself. For part-time jobs, a verbal agreement is allowed, but keep records of your original agreement.
If a dispute arises, promptly seek help from the Human Resources and Social Security Department and resolve it through official channels.
In Summary
When job hunting, use legal, legitimate, and reputable information sources.
You can go to public employment service agencies, official recruitment websites, or human resources agencies licensed by the Human Resources and Social Security Department.
Job searching and employment do not require any fees. Any request for payment under the guise of job hunting is a scam! Stay vigilant and do not take chances.
When applying, protect your personal information. Do not provide overly specific details like your home address on your resume—focus on your work and study experience. After receiving a job offer, discuss the situation with experienced friends or family and listen to their advice. Verify information online, especially by checking the employer’s registration or filing status on official government websites. If you cannot find the company’s information, it may not exist.
If you encounter a job scam or malicious contract termination, call 12333 or contact the Human Resources and Social Security Department to report it. If your personal safety is threatened, contact the police immediately.
