Think Before You Click: Anti-Phishing Campaign Raises Awareness on Job Scams

An anti-phishing awareness campaign is calling on members of the public to remain vigilant against online scams that target job seekers through fake employment offers and visa promises.

The campaign highlights a common phishing tactic in which fraudsters send messages claiming that a person’s overseas job application has been approved. Victims are then asked to pay money for visa processing or other supposed administrative costs. In one example, scammers promise a Canada visa sponsorship and demand KSh 15,000 before midnight. Security experts warn that such requests are designed to steal money and personal information.

The campaign reminds the public that genuine employers and recruitment agencies do not ask applicants to send money before interviews or job placement. Instead, individuals are encouraged to verify job offers through official company websites and trusted recruitment channels before taking any action.

People are also advised to avoid clicking suspicious links, never share personal or financial information with unknown contacts, and report suspected phishing attempts to the relevant authorities or service providers.

News Light Kenya, through the Access4Safe initiative with support from TrustLab and funding from the European Union, continues to educate and sensitize the public on recognizing phishing attempts. The campaign aims to strengthen digital safety by encouraging everyone to think, verify, and report suspicious online messages before becoming victims of cybercrime.