Press Release: March 2024
Fake job offers on WhatsApp posing as Bold Online Marketing (Pty) Ltd!
Don’t click links or share info. Real companies wouldn’t contact you this way.
Please Report to WhatsApp. ➡️ Here is how: How to block and report contacts on WhatsApp
We’ve been made aware of a scam targeting users on WhatsApp. Scammers are posing as representatives from Bold Online Marketing (Pty) Ltd and offering fake part-time freelance positions.
Here’s how the scam works:
- You receive a message on WhatsApp from someone claiming to be Aliza, an HR assistant at Bold Online Marketing Company.
- They mention obtaining your phone number through internet job boards like LinkedIn and mediaforgrowth.co (without your permission).
- They offer you a part-time freelance position and promise to discuss the specifics and advantages.
Here’s why it’s a scam:
- Legitimate companies wouldn’t obtain contact information without your knowledge.
- Reputable companies wouldn’t initiate job offers through WhatsApp.
How to protect yourself:
- Do not respond to the message. Engaging with scammers can lead to further attempts.
- Do not click on any links that might be included in the message.
- Do not share any personal information such as your address, bank details, or identification documents.
- Report the scam to WhatsApp.
If you’re unsure about a job offer, here are some tips:
- Research the company. Check their website and social media presence for legitimacy.
- Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Never pay any fees upfront to secure a job.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from online scams.
Additionally, you can consider including these points in your social media and website post:
- Emphasize that Bold Online Marketing Company is not involved in this scam.
- Encourage users to report suspicious activity to WhatsApp.
- Share resources on how to identify and avoid online scams (e.g., links to government or consumer protection websites).
By staying vigilant and spreading awareness, we can make it harder for scammers to succeed.
