What Are Job Scams? How to Avoid Fake Opportunities in Malaysia & Singapore

The Rise of Job Scams in Southeast Asia

With the ability to do work remotely and hire digitally, fake job scams are increasing in Malaysia & Singapore. Scammers impersonate legitimate companies such as recruitment agencies, tricking job seekers into paying fees for non-existent jobs.


How to Spot a Fake Recruitment Agency

1. They Ask for Payment Upfront

  • Legit recruiters NEVER charge candidates. Fake agencies ask for processing fees, training fees, or admin costs.


2. Vague Job Descriptions & Unrealistic Salaries

  • If a job sounds too good to be true (e.g. RM15,000/month for an entry-level role), it’s likely a scam.


3. No Company Website or Professional Email Address

  • A real recruitment firm has a verified company website (e.g., findtalents.co, NOT gmail.com/hotmail.com/outlook.com emails).


4. No Face-to-Face or Video Interviews

  • Scammers often avoid showing their faces and push for fast online agreements.


How to Protect Yourself from Job Scams

Verify the Agency’s License

  • Malaysia: Check with the Ministry of Human Resources (e.g. JTKSM's list of employment agencies)
  • Singapore: Verify with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)'s EA Directory


Cross-Check Job Listings

  • Compare listings of similar positions on legitimate job portals (e.g. FIND Global, LinkedIn, JobStreet, etc)


Never Share Personal Info Before Verification

  • Avoid providing information such as identification card, passport details, bank info before a contract is signed.


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ABOUT FIND

FIND is an award-winning, leading recruitment company—an agency connecting top talent with growing companies across Malaysia and Singapore.


Specializing in executive search, foreign language hiring, and mass recruitment, we simplify the hiring process and help job seekers find their best career match.

Agensi Pekerjaan Find Talent Sdn Bhd, 202101016173 (JTKSM 1101C) • Find Global Pte Ltd, 202415389G (License No.: 24C2388)