IEC warns public of scammers exploiting job seekers

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has warned members of the public about fraudsters using online job advertisement websites in the name of the organisation to obtain personal information from unsuspecting job seekers.

ALSO READ: JMPD: Beware of fake jobs

The Commission has noted various advertisements doing the rounds on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.

Some advertisements claim that the IEC is recruiting for the forthcoming 2024 National and Provincial Elections, and ask interested persons to provide their personal information. Other fake advertisements suggest to advertise the IEC’s recruitment portal.

ALSO READ: Nasi iSpani: Lesufi claims videos of CVs thrown away are fake

“Scammers are using fake job postings to take advantage of unsuspecting applicants. We had one site shut down, and then we received reports of others.

“I wish to stress that the Electoral Commission only advertises its job opportunities on its official social media channels – Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, and on its recruitment portal on the official website – www.elections.org.za.

“Any post, message or website that asks you to fill in your personal details as part of an application process or directs you to any other website is a potential phishing site,” Chief Electoral Officer of the Electoral Commission, Sy Mamabolo, said.

In this instance, phishing takes place when the fraudsters pose as the IEC and use the promise of jobs in their communication to deceive people into revealing sensitive personal information.

IEC

ALSO READ: Bogus ‘teacher’ applying for SACE arrested with fake qualification

The IEC appealed to job seekers to protect themselves by applying for jobs advertised on their platforms only.

“Please share this message with family and friends, and do not let fraudsters take advantage of you.

“If you’re unsure whether a job advertisement is legitimate, please contact us on one of our social media pages or email info@elections.org.za,” Mamabolo said.

ALSO READ: JMPD arrests suspect for selling Correctional Services jobs

The Electoral Commission said it was in the process of taking legal action against those involved in this fraudulent practice. – SAnews.gov.za.