A recent survey conducted by Reeracoen Singapore, in partnership with Rakuten Insight Global, has revealed that 35% of jobseekers in Singapore have fallen victim to job scams over the past year, with more than half experiencing multiple attempts.
This alarming statistic emerges amidst a broader rise in scam activities across the nation, with job scams alone costing victims over $14.6m (S$20m) in 2023, according to the Singapore Police Force.
Kenji Naito, Group CEO of Reeracoen Group, emphasised the growing challenge posed by digital fraud, stating, “As AI continues to evolve, it’s becoming harder to tell what’s real and what’s a scam — especially in digital hiring. This is no longer just a tech problem; it’s a human one.” The survey indicates a significant decline in trust among jobseekers, with 79% expressing high concern over scam risks and 40% reporting reduced confidence in recruitment platforms.
Fraudsters are increasingly exploiting legitimate-looking platforms and impersonating recruiters, targeting tech-savvy candidates. Common red flags include requests for upfront fees and offers of suspiciously high salaries with minimal job requirements. Shoichi Sunaga, Branch Manager of Reeracoen Singapore, noted, “Verified listings, stronger employer branding, and human-led screening are no longer optional – they’re essential.”
Jobseekers are calling for greater accountability from job platforms, demanding stricter screening, verified accounts, and real-time reporting systems. The report suggests deploying verification badge systems, implementing AI-powered screening tools, and enhancing collaboration with regulatory bodies to combat these scams effectively.
Reeracoen advocates for industry-wide collaboration to create a more secure and transparent digital hiring environment, ensuring jobseekers can navigate the market safely.
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