Heads Up, Tech Professionals: Protect Yourself From Phishing Scams Presenting as Recruiters

by Dice Staff Mar 7, 2024 3 min read

Here at Dice, we connect talented professionals with incredible tech job opportunities every day. But lately, there's been a disturbing trend: Bad actors are posing as recruiters and targeting tech job seekers with phishing scams. These scams are common, unfortunately, and all job boards and career marketplaces are eventually featured in such a scam.

This week, Dice received reports that individuals are receiving messages from senders claiming to be Dice recruiters on various messaging apps. The messages claim that there is a job opportunity for the recipient, but they appear to be phishing attempts. These individuals are in no way affiliated with Dice.

If a recruiter who is a legitimate Dice client reaches out to you, they will contact you on a job site via their internal messaging service — or through the Dice platform using our messaging tool.

If a recruiter who is recruiting internally for Dice or DHI Group, Inc. (our parent company) reaches out, they will contact you on a job site via their internal messaging service — or through a Dice/DHI Group, Inc. email (with a corporate email signature and contact information).

How to Spot a Phony Recruiter:

Unrealistic Urgency: Phishing attempts often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into giving up information quickly. Phrases like "limited positions available" or "need your resume ASAP" should raise red flags.
Bad Grammar / Spelling Errors: If a message from a recruiter feels unprofessional, it’s a red flag.
Suspicious Links and Attachments: Never click on links or download attachments from unsolicited emails or texts, even if they appear to be from Dice. We will always communicate through our official channels.
Requesting Sensitive Information: Legitimate recruiters won't ask for your Social Security number, bank account details or login credentials upfront.

Working With Real Recruiters:

Verification is Key: If you're unsure about a recruiter's legitimacy, reach out to the company directly through their website or their official social media accounts. They can verify if the recruiter is working on their behalf.
Common Communication Channels: Most recruiters primarily communicate through a secure messaging system on a job site (like Dice). They may also reach out to you directly by email (with a corporate signature that includes contact information) or a phone call (not text).
Transparency Matters: A real recruiter will be upfront about the company they represent, the position details and the interview process. They'll also be happy to answer your questions about the opportunity.

Guarding Your Information:

Strong Passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all your online accounts, including your Dice profile. Consider a password manager to securely keep track of them.
Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or email in addition to your password.
Beware Social Sharing: Be mindful of what information you share publicly on social media platforms. Phishers can use this information to target you with personalized scams.

By following these tips, you can protect yourself from phishing scams and ensure a safe and successful job search. If you suspect a phishing attempt, report it to Dice immediately by emailing our team at compliance@dice.com. At Dice, your security is our top priority. We're here to connect you with your dream tech job, the right way.

How to Spot a Phony Recruiter:

Unrealistic Urgency: Phishing attempts often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into giving up information quickly. Phrases like "limited positions available" or "need your resume ASAP" should raise red flags.

Bad Grammar / Spelling Errors: If a message from a recruiter feels unprofessional, it’s a red flag.

Suspicious Links and Attachments: Never click on links or download attachments from unsolicited emails or texts, even if they appear to be from Dice. We will always communicate through our official channels.

Requesting Sensitive Information: Legitimate recruiters won't ask for your Social Security number, bank account details or login credentials upfront.

Working With Real Recruiters:

Verification is Key: If you're unsure about a recruiter's legitimacy, reach out to the company directly through their website or their official social media accounts. They can verify if the recruiter is working on their behalf.

Common Communication Channels: Most recruiters primarily communicate through a secure messaging system on a job site (like Dice). They may also reach out to you directly by email (with a corporate signature that includes contact information) or a phone call (not text).

Transparency Matters: A real recruiter will be upfront about the company they represent, the position details and the interview process. They'll also be happy to answer your questions about the opportunity.

Guarding Your Information:

Strong Passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all your online accounts, including your Dice profile. Consider a password manager to securely keep track of them.

Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or email in addition to your password.

Beware Social Sharing: Be mindful of what information you share publicly on social media platforms. Phishers can use this information to target you with personalized scams.