AI-fueled scams target job seekers

Cybersecurity experts are raising alarms about a notable increase in fake job offers, which are increasingly being generated using advanced generative AI technology. Paul Keener, a strategist from GuidePoint Security, reported that around 245,500 individuals fell victim to these scams in the previous year, reflecting a 25% increase from 2022 to 2023. The rise in these deceptive job listings is particularly concerning for those who have recently experienced layoffs, as they are often in desperate need of employment. Scammers leverage generative AI to craft job offers that appear genuine, making it easier to deceive job seekers. Keener explained that scammers simply input prompts into the AI to generate effective and convincing emails.

The trend is expected to continue growing, exacerbated by the ongoing layoffs in the tech sector. Cybersecurity experts recommend that job seekers exercise caution and thoroughly verify any job offers they receive. By staying informed and vigilant, individuals can better protect themselves against these increasingly sophisticated scams.