How to Spot a Recruitment Scam and Protect Yourself
Recruitment scams are on the rise, and they’re becoming more sophisticated every year. Scammers often impersonate real recruitment companies, sometimes even using genuine consultant names, logos, or job ads, to trick job seekers into sharing personal or financial information.
Recently, we’ve been made aware of individuals unlawfully using the Vallum Associates name and branding to deceive candidates. Your safety is our priority, so here is a clear, practical guide to help you recognise a recruitment scam and protect yourself.
What is a recruitment scam?
A recruitment scam is when a fraudster pretends to be a recruiter or a legitimate recruitment company to steal money, personal data, or identity information.
Common tactics include fake job adverts, impersonating real consultants, and sending phishing emails or messages that look “official.”
How to spot a recruitment scam
If you experience any of the following, it is likely a scam. Always trust your instincts.
1. They ask for money or financial information
Scammers may request:
“Admin fees,”
“Processing fees,”
Bank details
Or money transfers.
Vallum Associates will never ask for payment or your banking details during a job search, interview process, or job application.
2. Poor Communication or unprofessional messages
Check for:
Bad spelling and grammar
Vague job descriptions
Generic greetings
Broken English
Pushy or rushed behaviour
Our consultants are professionals and will communicate clearly, consistently, and transparently.
3. Emails coming from generic or suspicious domains
Anything else, especially @vallumcareers.com is not us.
4. Instant job offers or unrealistic salaries
If you are offered a role without a screening call, interview, CV review, it’s likely fraudulent. Vallum Associates follows a structured recruitment process with proper qualification steps.
5. Suspicious links or attachments
Never click links or download files from unknown senders. Genuine consultants will always provide context and clarity.
6. Unnecessary personal information requests
Be wary if someone asks for information that feels very personal too soon, including passport copies, national insurance numbers, etc… before any legitimate hiring stage.
Vallum does not conduct interviews via email, text messages, WhatsApp, or Telegram.
7. Poor Quality Branding
Low-resolution logos, incorrect colours, odd file names, or inconsistent email signatures are common in fraudulent communication.
All Vallum Associates documents are professionally branded.
How to verify you are speaking with a real Vallum Associates consultant
If in doubt, stop and check.
A real Vallum consultant will always:
Email you from @vallumassociates.com
Have a branded email signature
Be able to confirm their identity via an official office line
Discuss roles professionally and transparently
Follow a structured recruitment and interview process
