When you apply for a job online that ask you to call that supposedly is about screening you for a job, but is really about collecting information about you.
If you are seeking employment online stay away from companies that ask you to call and speak with a career specialist. A recent unpleasant experience has prompted me to post this blog entry, so now I am going to bestow them the honor of exposing them for the crummy scum that they are.
These types of job listing sites lure in hopeful job seekers with job postings online that either do not exist, or are unavailable. Of course it is never their intention to disclose this information to you. The classic bait and switch that has long been used by car sales people and scammers alike is the method of the choice for these shoddy establishments.
Upon applying to a job posting online, I was informed that I have to call a number on my screen to speak with a Career Specialist before my application can be submitted. Once I called the number on my computer screen, I spoke with a career specialist and answered a few questions (questions such as, what is your salary requirement, or preferred work hours) to better help them match me up with job opportunities. Then the career specialist sent me an e-mail with information to login. However after logging in, the job that I was told that would be available, mysteriously became unavailable and I was later told that the position is closed (Pictures are below).
For those of you that are seeking employment, be aware of companies that requires you to get on the phone to be screened before applying for a job.
Click the link —> BBB Warns of New Job Scam
Click the link —> Complaints on BBB
Click the link—> FTC Charges Gigats for Fraud (as of April 2016)
Click the link—> FTC vs Gigats Lawsuit (as of April 2016)
I’m 22yrs old pasted high school now I’m trying to do my best and work hard Cruz I’m trying to better myself plz it wood be my first job I thank its great yell are help people OK me it means a lot
They scammed me too I should have went with my gut feeling cuz I felt very uneasy talkin to will.s they need to remove them from the internet because they are messing with people’s lives especially bbc.co when someone is looking for a job if we were interested in furthering our education we can do that on our own ooh im so fu***** mad right now and when I called them back they told me not to ever call that number again ooh I swear they are definitely con artists
I too, had recieved a text about a job that I had applied for. I too, had a message that I needed to contact them. I did call, and yes it was just a lead in to futhering my education. Disappointing and a waste of time.
I got hit by the Gigats scam today. They posted a fraudulent job posting on http://www.joblistingusa.com for a Costco warehouse stocker position. I didn’t realize the scam until I did a google search trying to find out how to use their “site” better and I came across this blog. I called Costco customer service which confirmed it was fraud and that they do no business with Gigats. The kind customer service was nice enough to provide me an email to which I can send my screenshots to, and I will be filling a report with the proper authorities and I urge every other victim of this scam to do the same.
I found a job with gigats. They urge you to apply to the positions they send you immediately because the employer can take it off the site at any point. Also, they do not ask for any personal information other than what an interviewer would ask for. People think it is a scam because they “sell” you on higher education. But you’re not actually buying anything…so what is the harm? I’m enrolling to get my masters because their advisor helped me find an affordable program.
Miranda you are a moron! Ugh… Gigats is scam! Since when do you have to purchase something from a company to prove their operations as a scam? Wow maybe it’s a good thing you are going back to school because you are such a fool! What makes Gigats a scam as the author of this post and other victims of this company has put is that Gigats tricks you into thinking you are applying for a job that exist. Once you fill out the application did you notice that you are not lead to company site that you are applying for? probably not, right Mirandum! No instead, all of your info goes to Gigats and then you have to call for an interview. Once you are all set up, the job that you apply for is suddenly unavailable.
“They urge you to apply to the positions they send you immediately because the employer can take it off the site at any point.” – Miranda aka Mirandum
Well that’s just complete BULLSH!T. The jobs don’t exist anyway everyone on has talked about calling the company they were applying to, only to find out the damn job posted never existed!
I find it kinda hard to believe that of all of the negative stuff I’ve heard and read about Gigats; that you, Miranda, have something good to say. Anyone else think this is weird?
Omg I had a feeling something was up. Just got off the phone with “Will S.” Do not go though with gigats it is not right. I read some of the comments glad I came across this blog to save me from unnecessary Headache.Question though. Am I safe if all I did was talk to them on the phone? I have not even responded to the email or gave out any bank info or ssn. All they have is the info on my resume and a email address.
I just got off the phone with a employment specialist. I thought I was applying for a job. I entered my name and address and hit the submit button. I was brought to a screen that stated I should call this number to continue with the application process. I called and was asked some questions about my work history and my education. When they found out I only have a high school diploma they immediately pushed me towards higher education. I was very uneasy, so I searched the internet for some information Gigats while I was talking to them and came across this site. Yikes I wish I saw this before I called the phone #. I told Steve that I really never thought about going back to school until just now and I’m really uncomfortable about this whole thing. I will definitely add them to my spam filters and will not have any connection to Gigats whatsoever! Thanks for confirming all the uneasy feelings I was having.
Waste of time is right. I chose a Customer Service job listed with Samaritan Health and filled out my ‘application,’ then scheduled an ‘interview’ for the job at 9:30 AM today. When I called in, I found out this was all a lie. The so-called ‘person’ conducting the ‘interview’ wasn’t even a real, live person, but a prerecorded voice. Yes, he was Will S. The so-called ‘interview’ for the job was not with Samaritan Health. It turned out to be a ‘bait and switch’ by Gigats in an attempt to offer me more education. I DON”T WANT MORE EDUCATION. I WANT TO FIND A JOB! I seriously doubt that Samaritan Health ever got my application. I haven’t received anything from them or Gigats either, for that matter, indicating that my application was received. When I went directly to Samaritan Health to do a job search, no such position could be found. This whole experience was horrible, leading me to conclude that Gigats is preying on sincere job-seekers like myself, with the pretense of offering an actual job interview, when in fact it’s a slick scam to bamboozle people into buying into their agenda.
OMG glad I ran across this, I to was called by James asked a bunch of questions, then they try to get you to sign up for school, but when I clicked on (login) a alert message came up and said my device can’t connect, yes a scam…….
I used to work for a university with an online campus. They bought leads from sources somewhat similar to this sometimes, but would promptly stop buying them when we (Admissions Advisers) would file complaints from the people who got scammed.
Funny, I could tell the “specialist” was reading from a script, and when Id object I could pinpoint the paragraph he flipped back to to start reading again.
I didnt even open the email he sent me. Glad I came across this blog posting as I now wont waist a second more of my time.
Thank you!!!! I just got off the phone with Will myself… did not answer direct questions… just had a weird feeling about the whole thing…
Is there any way to get a class-action law suit against Gigats. While I realize someone commented that we should be going directly to websites to apply for position —- it’s hard to deny someone who says they are trying to help you get a job.. Especially when you are like me: over 50; single parent with a special needs kid; excellent resume — there are not many options out there; especially in NYC
BTW have been emailing the so-called rep asking for my job postings and have not received a reply……let’s see if “he” replies to the big “F U” I finally sent, out of sheer frustration. Totally unprofessional, but hey, so is Gigats.
Another BTW : could not get anyone on the phone at the parent company, Softrock. Did find this number : 407-536-6705 and actually got a real live person on the phone. Brandon could not explain why I have had no job alerts and could not explain why “Will S.”, my acct rep, has not responded to my emails. Brandon would not put a supervisor on the phone. I don’t know how he sleeps at night knowing how all these people are being scammed. He just kept saying all they wanted to do was help people find a job, yet he couldn’t explain why jobs they posted where already closed, and why my rep would not respond to my email….I urge everyone to call: 407-536-6705. Thank you.
Hello there! I just would like to give you a big thumbs up for the great information you have got right here on this post. I’ll be coming back to your website for more soon.
Unfortunately for me, I found these postings too late. I, too, have been suckered by gigats! I HAVE BEEN EXTREMELY FRUSTRATED THE PAST FEW DAYS BECAUSE OF THE SCAMMING A-HOLES AT GIGATS!! Thank You to ALL of you who posted here! My dealings with job seeker sites are at an end!
Great! Another Scam! Just got the phone with a “Recruiting Specialist” from Gigats, and everything sounded fishy from the begin with. After answering a few basic questions about a possible position at Virgin Airlines, Scott sent me an email where I would have to “set up” the job adviser online, them he would “guide”me through it. I was very uncomfortable with the unsafe link (not https for starters), so I decide to do a quick research about Gigats. Well… It turned out that tons of people had the same experience in having positions applied “misteriously” removed and no longer available . They use your database to try selling online courses or something else related to education programs. Shame on you Gigats!
I saw a job opening but went to that firm’s website first to learn that no job existed. Then an hour later, I saw another job posted and did the same thing, no job posted on the firm’s website. So, I completely agree with your sentiments – they create phantom jobs that do not exist. Now, how do we get these scoundrels off the web…
STEER AWAY IT IS A SCAM TO SELL YOUR INFORMATION TO COLLEGES SO THEY CAN HARRASS YOU I.E ADDRESS, NAME,…NO EMPLOYEE KNOWS ABOUT OR CARES IF YOU GET ANYJOB..THEY WANT TO GIVE YOUR INO TO SCHOOLS BEWARE
Just a thought here, folks… I mean… duh? If you see a posting on ANY job-board, GO TO THE WEB-SITE OF THE COMPANY LISTED, AND APPLY THROUGH THEIR WEB-SITE DIRECTLY. Do you think these job-search sites have any special “ins” with any company? No… they’re just relaying information they find on a hiring company’s web-sites.
NEVER use the listings on job-boards directly (even Monster, or other “reputable” sites). You’ll often NOT be applying to the company you intend, but just be adding your name to some database which will deluge you with junk/spam job listings.
I try to use Monster and other more reputable websites to apply for jobs because their business is posting jobs and their revenue probably comes from that. Also, Monster, in particular, makes it MUCH easier to apply for the dozens of jobs we apply for each week.
I’m not sure why employers make it so hard to apply for jobs. I have yet to come across an application that doesn’t require you to create a job profile and then submit your resume THEN retype all of the information that’s on the resume into their “employment history” template. Why do they do that??? It takes HOURS to fill out those profiles and then you never even hear from these people. I wonder if they even recognize how much they’re asking of us.
I guess those of us who are desperate for jobs and want to apply for as many as possible turn to entities that promise to facilitate that goal.
I too just fell for this scam this evening. I am an unemployed ‘mature’ wrker and found a job posting on one of the ‘over 50’ websites. I had an identical experience to the rest of the people who commented on Gigats. Fortunately, I did not give out any SS#, date of birth, bank or card numbers. Also, since I felt funny after calling Gigats, I found your site very quickly and did not complete my registration. I cancelled email alerts, but who knows. I called my bank just to report this incident and that I had no intention of applying for any loans of any kind for the forseeable future. They are noting my account that I called. They also advised me to just monitor my account for a few days and report an suspicious activity. But again, as I did not provide Gigats with any access information, my bank rep said I was likely okay, but that I’d probably get spammed/slammed with emails/texts/calls. The bank rep said that calling local law enforcement to report fraud was up to me. This is just the icing on the crummy cake of a bad day. Thank you so much for saving my butt!
Thanks for posting your experiences. I also made that application but I was suspicious about that suddenly phone call appearance!
I didn call, and today I received that SMS but I wanted to be sure and BINGO!!! there were you with yours posts!
Thanks again.
It hurts to t be fooled but it worse when you are looking for a job!!!
I wish i looked this up before i filled out their form and uploaded my resume on it. I found the job through a career website my school has so i figured it was trustworthy. Since they have my name, address and phone # should i be worried about them taking out loans and such as i’ve been reading here? I did not call the number for the phone interview because i figured something was up when i reached that but now im nervous they will use the information wrongly. Should i be worried?
THIS SERVICE IS AN EDUCATION REFERRAL PROGRAM DISGUISED AS A “JOB MATCHING” SITE!
THE PARENT COMPANY CALLED SOFTROCK INC GETS PAID BY SCHOOLS TO HAVE GIGATS REFER THEM LEADS TO SIGN UP FOR EITHER TRADE PROGRAMS, OR 2 YEAR AND 4 YEAR COLLEGE DEGREES.
SOFTROCK, BASED OUT OF ORLANDO FL, HAS CANDIDATES GO THROUGH AN “INTERVIEW” PROCESS TO DETERMINE THE CANDIDATES JOB PREFERENCES AND QUALIFICATIONS AND THEN IS SUPPOSED TO SEND THEM AN EMAIL WITH LINKS TO POTENTIAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES.
IT ALSO IS SUPPOSED TO HELP CANDIDATES WITH ANY EDUCATION “INFORMATION” THAT THEY MIGHT NEED TO ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS.
IT ALL SOUNDS WONDERFUL, THE PROBLEM IS THAT PEOPLE DONT GET THE EMAILS THAT ARE SUPPOSED TO HELP THEM FIND A JOB!
I PERSONALLY HATE THE FACT THAT I AM INVOLVED WITH WHAT IS A DOWNRIGHT SCAM FOR SO MANY PEOPLE THAT TRY TO FIND JOB HELP.
I UNDERSTAND THAT FURTHERING ONES EDUCATION IS IMPORTANT TO BE SUCCESSFULL IN LIFE ESPECIALLY NOW IN DAYS BUT NOT AT THE EXPENSE OF PEOPLES SITUATIONS.
THE FOUNDER AND CEO AlecDifrawi PAINTS THE SERVICE WE DO HERE AS A GODSEND TO EVERYONE THAT NEEDS IT AND MAKES EVERYTHING SEEM WONDERFUL AND HONESTLY CREATES A WONDERFUL WORKING ENVIRONMENT BUT THE TRUTH IS IN THE PUDDING AND IT IS WHAT IT IS: A SCAM. I AM PROVIDING THE PARENT COMPANY’S CONTACT INFORMATION AS WELL AS THE CEO’S COMPANY EMAIL, SO YOU CAN USE IT AT YOUR DISCRETION WHETHER TO FILE COMPLAINTS/JOB SCAMS OR CALL IN AND DO A PERSONAL ASS CHEWING.
BOTH WILL PROBABLY WORK FOR EVERYONE
=)
SoftRock INC.
1701 Park Center Drive
Orlando, FL 32835
(407)-803-6090
http://www.softrock.org
http://www.facebook.com/softrockinc
Alec Difrawi, CEO
EMAIL: alec.difrawi@softrock.org
They have my resume & I’m really worried about that at this point. I’m not really sure what I need to do or what I can do about this. I’m scared that they will try to hack into my bank or something.. I mean I’m not sure why they do that to people considering it’s people trying to find a job & obviously don’t have a lot of money. & they couldn’t get loans because my credit is already pretty shot… but I’m not really sure what to do if that is the case…
u guys r using these sites all wrong… dont use them to get the job. use them to expand ur personal database of companies, firms, and agencies in ur industry. Yes these sites r scams but not so much to point where they make up fictional companies. so yes the job posting r fake or old or invalid, whatever it may be but the companies r still real and operate in the industries ur finding them in. so u will have to do more work and maybe wait longer for an opening but now u have expanded ur job search to companies u may not have ever know about. anyways what i mean is go on these sites (gigats.com, etc.) find the companies (their name website whatever) in ur industry, google them, call them and see if and when they r hiring (every company has to hire eventually). dont forget to visit the website and see if they are hiring anyways or see if u can register with the company online to get and email blast every time there is a job opening in the company. it takes alot of self promotion and grinding and legit cold calling and emailing hr dept. but use these dumb websites to ur advantage. no one will hand u a job. dedicate as much time to researching where and who has the jobs to offer as u would homework in school if not more. thinking of these websites as infomercial on tv at 4am some of them work and some dont. the product u buy the infomercial might be shit but it enlightened u to the fact that there r these types of products out there. thus the name “infomercial”
Well, great. I’m glad I came across this blog. I was trying to apply for a job opening at Costco in Fort Worth. I got a really bad feeling as I was registering. I haven’t spoken to anyone yet, but at least I have the number in my phone so I know which number to ignore if they call ME. >: This totally sucks! I’ll bet Costco has never even heard of Gigats
I was filling out the app for gigats on my ipad and didn’t have my resume on it so I went to my home computer to finish the app. I pulled up gigats and more than the oppritunity to fill out for the app, I saw all the bad publicity directly after. I was shocked to see how many people have had an issue with this. I am a full time college student so I don’t have a lot of time or money to chase job leads. I can only speak for myself when I say I greatly appreciate people like you who help the rest of us who are willing to listen to more than one side of things and assume a “company” is always willing to help. I can tell you the single thing that made me look more than one is pulling up the name gigats and SEVERAL complaints came with it. That needs to always be looked at when researching a company. Several others as well have tried to pound in the school thing. You tell them you are already attending and they keep trying to get you to attend a different one.Good for you and us that you made this original posting. Thank you again, Tamara
As many of you, I also just got off the phone with a representative. I am skeptical of many things, especially scams, which led me to google. This blog is the first site I clicked on. Thanks guys.
ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE USED GIGATS TO APPLY FOR A JOB, YOU MAY WANT TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL POLICE/SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT TO FILE A FRAUD REPORT AS THEY HAVE A TENDENCY TO LAY LOW WITH YOUR INFORMATION AND THEN TRY TO TAKE OUT LOANS WITH YOUR INFORMATION. I WAS ADVISED TO ALERT MY BANK AND CREDIT CARDS.
What if they didn’t get any of our credit information.. can they still find it with the little information we have given them?
As I was trying to apply for a local job opening with Hope Network, I was directed to call the Gigats number. I spoke with a young lady named Ashley who told me they are a screening company hired by Hope Network to make sure only the appropriate applicants are applying for this position. Before I went any further I immediately asked if they were going to try to charge me for anything and was assured they are paid by Hope Network and that they will not charge me. Ashley then asked me if I would sign up for the job of the day program and went on to explain it. When I asked her if I could just apply for the job with Hope Network without signing up for the job of the day program I was actually hung up on.
I instantly looked for a local number to Hope Network and was directed to their Human Resources department. I spoke with Carol from Hope Network who assured me they have NO affiliation with Gigats. Carol was also interested to know that the website that linked me to Gigats was using Hope Network’s name and logo, but they were actually Gigats. Hope Network is looking into Gigats and hopefully will be able to help shut them down.
I was fortunate enough to cut my time short with Gigats, but it still took over an hour to track down the real Hope Network and report Gigats to them as a scam. Good luck to anyone else that has to deal with this company and please DO NOT waste your time talking to them. Oh, and it turns out that Hope Network isn’t even hiring at this time.
Hi Roxann. In response to shutting Gigats down, I was told that the company is in India which means the United States has no jurisdiction over them. Unfortunately, from what I have read is that gigats takes your information in due time and uses it to apply for loans. When I goggled gigats, there are at least 12 different phone numbers to reach them. And they are smart, they use names that we are familiar with, Heinz, Delta, Home Depot, just to name a few. I was advised to file a fraud report with the sheriffs office just to protect myself. I was also told by the Lee County sheriffs department to notify credit card companies and my bank. The sheriffs office said that Gigats will lay low with our information and after we think everything is ok, they may try to use our information to try to take out loans. My suggestion is to just be on the alert of anything strange.
Thanks for the heads up Lynette. They didn’t get any information from me other than what is on my Resume, but I will be monitoring my credit report closely for anything funny. I have also been keeping records of all calls and emails that are a result of my run-in. Maybe if this gets bad enough people will sue for harassment and fraud. Good luck to all the victims out there.
I answered an online ad for a customer service position at Burlington Coat Factory. I was prompted to choose an interview date and time. I called for my interview, only to be told by some guy whose name I don’t even remember, but they pre-screen applicants for many companies. OK, no problem. But then he tells me this will take 25-30 minutes, and after he has all his information, he will be able to match me to an appropriate job. STOP. That’s when I asked whatever happened to the position at Burlington Coat Factory, and he repeated what he had said about matching me up with a position, which only shows me he’s reading it. I said no thanks and hung up. They are just another employment agency. It was cruel what they did. To think you have an interview lined up, then to find out it’s just another scam artist is a cruel thing to do when so many of us are looking for work. BAD PEOPLE!!!
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but they are a scam! They use our information to try to take out loans. Company is overseas, possibly India and the United States has no jurisdiction over them.
Gigats is not overseas. lol
I literally just got off the phone with gigats.com…. Not even 10 minutes ago. Something didn’t seem quite right and I am so glad I read this blog…… Thanks all
I normally don’t comment on blogs, but I’m so glad I found this one. I just (like, 10 minutes ago), got off a call with a Career Specialist for Gigats.com. His name was Carlos. He answered when I called the number provided, so I did not get any pre-recorded operators. He was a fast-talker, asking me all the questions you also were asked, about desired hours and salary, etc. He wasted 20 minutes of my life to get me into the “Job a Day” program, and he took about 10 minutes asking me about whether I was interested in going back to school to try another field. I told him no, but he asked me repeatedly, in different ways, if I would be interested in going back to school. He even had the nerve to say, “I understand that school isn’t for everyone, but if you would go back to school, what would it be for?” As he asked the previous five times. First of all, I have a four-year Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college. Don’t tell me school isn’t for everyone, I WENT to school! The fact that I had to give him REASONS why I didn’t want to go back to school made me upset and made me further question the validity of this company. That was a HUGE waste of time, I hope everyone that’s seriously looking for jobs happens upon this blog, because it will help them a lot. I felt so foolish to think that it was a step in the right direction, only to turn into a huge waste of time. I won’t open any emails they send to me, thank you for putting the information out there to people that are honestly just trying to find a good job.
I kew there was something fishy about…they just texted
me and when I called back…it just didn’t seem right….I hung right up…
I’m not one that writes to these blogs, but sometimes you do what you gotta do. I too was suckered into gigets and i wasn’t sure about it since most of my experiences with computers have not turned out well, but like so many others I am desperate. So I talked to Will and David and I agree with the other blogs I have read, and I agree with them, I’m really sorry that I didn’t read these before I called, but I’m glad I read them after the call, the blogs I read were at least a bit comforting to me letting me see that I.m not the only sucker, like a lot of other “fellow suckers” I can’t believe these people who are out to scam people , especially those of us who are really hurting, so they can make a buck off of anyone they can, in any way they can. Gee Whiz these people remind me of our wonderful republican represenatives in the in the senate and the house , how can you be so cold hearted to not pass unemployment extensions so people who really need it won’t be losing all they have. So with all the money they can save the country they should give them selves a great big raise , after all they busted thier buts to come up with all these ways to screw Americans good job you scumbags
“Will” is a robot and this is a scam. It is similar to the Craiglist scam, where a third-party company hijacks another legit company’s job posting, and then fraudulently portrays that it is a “recruiting firm” hired by the legit company to hire for them…and then takes your personal information and does who-knows-what with it.
If you want to make sure you are applying for a legit job, go directly to the company you want to apply to. Don’t fill out any personal information on a third-party site – go directly to the webpage of the employer that is hiring. If the position is open (and they are a medium to large employer), it will most likely be posted on their website and will explain how to apply. And if they have an HR department, call them first to find out how to apply. A legit company will not ask for a SSN or bank account upfront!!
I hope everyone that Googles, gets to see this blog and learns what a scam they are (and then they and all of their phony employees can disappear into the sunset…or maybe get taken down by BBB or attorney general or such)…
It is so sad for people like me who are seriously for a job, these people are taking advantage of our needs. Don’t know if Will is a robot, it seemed to me like a person following a script. Now they have my resume, although my resume does not have my address I did entered my address in their online application. I am not worry about the “texts” because my phone does not accept texts.
Thanks for posting your information, I was able to find it while I was on the phone with “Will” and I hang up after that.
I felt that Will might be a robot, because when I told him I didn’t hear something he was saying, he just kept on talking over me. When I said I repeat that, he went back six lines or so and I was like, “yeah, I got that, I got that, it was the part about…” and he just kept reading. So my gut was telling me something was wrong. When he asked for my email address, I remembered the website and how I chose the snail mail approach with the self-addressed envelopes (yeah, like I was ever gonna do that). I said, I don’t want that and he asked again, or rather, “prompted” again, and I again said “I don’t want that” and was promptly disconnected. I was STILL UNSURE that I was talking to a robot so I called back and got the same “Will” with the same voice and I began to feel like the Stepford wives, so I hung up. FREAKY and I felt like a fool for falling for it.
It’s very discouraging to jobseekers, bec it makes you think everyone is like that, but I learned not to trust websites that just have a company logo on them. I feel bad for all the people who went further. But it’s a good lesson to trust your gut and know when you’re being scammed.
I think others thought I was crazy when I told them I think I was talking to a robot, even one lady friend said, “You didn’t want to give them your email so they could find other jobs in your area?” Like I did a bad thing by not giving them my email. W
It is a robot. After a minute or so I realized this because of the consistent tone. I asked “Will” what’s the difference between their company & an agency & the computer couldn’t comprehend the question & hung up on me! Bull&^%$%$&^
Hey everyone,
I just hung up on the automated phone service. However, they now have my home address, my phone number, and the resume I uploaded onto their site. Now I am worried about my personal information being thrown around. Will I be bombarded with spam? What’s the worse that could happen with the information I gave out before discovering this blog?
Hey John. Check with your local police/sheriffs department. I was told to file a fraud report to protect myself in case they trys to do anything with my information. I, too, believed them and the have my name, ss #, address, birthdate, etc. I live in Lee County, Florida and when I talked to the sheriffs department, I was told this is an out of country scam and the United States can’t shut them down. I was also told that they won’t use our information for a while and then they try to take loans out in our names. I have now started using all 1’s for my SS # and a fake birthdate if I do apply online. Good luck! I won’t do online apps anymore. If I find a company that fits my needs, I no call them first to make sure it is legitimate.
I was JUST hit by this scam… I was reading these while I was on the line with “Will” and the “advisor.” I never gave my SSN, but they have my address and email. Im scared….
I’m glad I looked this up before calling…I received a text message and then said for me to call them about a job that I applied for. I don’t remember applying for the job said under them, because once I filled out the information with this website and it asked me to call the number I figured it was a scam…and after the phone number on the text it says (txt STOP to cancel). No employer would text you to call them and they definitely wouldn’t put on a text (txt STOP to cancel)…I think I’ll pass on this text. It all seems so strange to me. Thanks again for the warning!
Do you remember what the number was because I want to text stop as well but I accidentally deleted the text. Thanks 🙂
(855) 283-6144
I called when I was supposed to and my cell phone dropped off just as someone answered. I called back and started talking to “Will”. As I am talking to Will, I get another call, from Will, who starts his whole spiel again, verbatim. Now, I’m getting a bad feeling. I drop the second Will and go back to talk to the first Will. He gave his last name and I said I wanted to talk to a real person. He said they monitor the call. I asked who would win the Super Bowl and he replied he could not answer that, he has to stick to the script. I hung up. Called back and guess what, I got Will again. I gave my name and there was no recognition of just talking to me. I wish I had looked up this scam first
Like the other commenters, I wish I had read this before wasting almost an hour talking to those people.
I spoke with actual human beings, and I guess I was kind of under the impression that they were an outsourced employment agency of some sort. I spoke to an employment advisor and also an educations advisor; the second interaction resulted in nothing, really, except them advising me to call back “at the beginning of a month”, as for whatever reasons options at the end of the month are limited. This made little sense to me, as I’m interested in resuming undergrad studies at 1 of 2 local institutions; at one of them, the semester’s long since started, though the other does offer some of its courses in a six-week format that begins later in the semester.
Anyway, how do I go about removing myself from their contact list? Fortunately I was not asked for an SS#, which I would not have given them anyhow. It was confusing because I never signed up; the position I’d applied for was for a receptionist position at Ingersoll Rand, a company that makes industrial parts. I’d like to get off their contact list; I suppose I will contact the rep and request this. I’m kind of disappointed that I got scammed, but then again, they don’t have my SS# or anything like that. I figure I might get some unsolicited phone calls or emails if they sell my information, though.
It was weird how little info I got out of their “education advisor”, but I think I know why. I mentioned that I have some undergrad credits and named the institutions, mentioning I want to go back and finish my in-progress Bachelor’s degree; I think they’re looking for people who are more susceptible to scammy online degree programs and such.
Not only could I not apply for the job but they also gave away my info to a third party and I received a pre-paid debit card that I never signed up for. The paper work that came with the card even said if you do not know why you received this card please call this number. WTF
It is sad that people looking for jobs have to put up with job scammers like Ayman A. El-Difrawi a/k/a Alec Difrawi d/b/a Softrock, Inc.,Career Network, Applicanttree.com, etc. etc. and Education Dynamics. Their deceptive practices is illegal and the FTC and other agencies have outlaw such practices. This guy has a history of engaging in this scams and have been doing this for over 12 years and feels un-touchable. Automatic immunity from prosecution.
This appears to be another Bernie Madoff were the regulatory agencies have turned a blind eye.
Difrawi was convicted of fraudulent practices.
AYMAN EL-DIFRAWI
Register Number: 25268-016
Released On: 08/27/1999
He targets the unemployed mainly the African American and Latinos community. The very poor and set up bogus workshops day and events to entice minorities to sign up for schools that some of the curriculum are not accredited and the cost is unaffordable. Of course grants and loans are available. The schools make money on federal and state grants awarded these students and loan taken to pay for the tuitions.
His business practices are fraudulent and deceptive.
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/Alec%20Difrawi
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/softrock
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/Career%20Network
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/Ayman%20El-difrawi
http://www.dmlp.org/threats/internet-solutions-v-marshall
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/Alec%20Defrawy
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/specific_search/Alec%20Defrawy
http://complaintwire.org/complaint/o_0Ede_EYQg/softrock-inc-career-network-gigats-employer-network-
http://800notes.com/Phone.aspx/1-202-403-
The FTC Guideline: Division of Advertising Practices
The Division of Advertising Practices protects consumers from unfair or deceptive advertising and marketing practices that raise health and safety concerns, as well as those that cause economic injury. It brings law enforcement actions in federal district court to stop fraudulent advertising practices, coordinates FTC actions with federal and international law enforcement agencies sharing authority over health and safety products and services, and monitors advertising and marketing of alcohol, tobacco, violent entertainment media, and food to children. The Division also brings administrative lawsuits to stop unfair and deceptive advertising.
Enforcement Priorities
The Division’s enforcement priorities include:
combating deceptive advertising of fraudulent cure-all claims for dietary supplements and weight loss products
monitoring and stopping deceptive Internet marketing practices that develop in response to public health issues
monitoring and developing effective enforcement strategies for new advertising techniques and media, such as word-of-mouth marketing;
monitoring and reporting on the advertising of food to children, including the impact of practices by food companies and the media on childhood obesity;
monitoring and reporting on industry practices regarding the marketing of violent movies, music, and electronic games to children;
monitoring and reporting on alcohol and tobacco marketing practices.
Rules and Guides
The Division develops, reviews, and enforces a variety of consumer protection laws, regulations, and Guides, including:
The Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act and the Contact Lens Rule, which increases consumers’ ability to shop around when buying contact lenses;
The Federal Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Acts, which require the FTC to review and approve tobacco company plans for rotating and displaying the statutory health warnings on tobacco labels and in ads; and
Dietary Supplement Guides, which provide businesses with guidance for claims they make for dietary supplements.
Consumer Protection Initiatives
The Division coordinates and addresses current consumer protection issues with state, federal, and international law enforcement agencies, as well as with industry self-regulation groups. These initiatives include:
working with the Food and Drug Administration to combat fraudulent products on the Internet through joint warning letters;
participating on the Inter-agency Coordinating Committee to Prevent Underage Drinking;
convening workshops with other government agencies, businesses, consumer groups, and community-based organizations;
working with sister agencies in other countries to combat the cross-border marketing of fraudulent and potentially harmful health products; and
reviewing referrals for non-participation or non-compliance from self-regulatory groups.
Guidance Documents: Advertising
Omg I recently applied and they just sent me a text and told me to call this number once they said that I knew it was a scam what company has you call them? None if they have your number they will call you ugh it’s sad that they have to play with people’s lives like they do
I just spent 45 minutes on the phone. On a fluke googled and up comes this website / blog. Ok so he has my phone number and some minor personnel information but nothing to serious. No S.S. number or D. L. number. So do have any worries about anything finanically speaking that anyone knows anything about?
Thank you for sharing your experience. I have been thinking past couple of days if I wanted to give it a try and check it out. I have been out of work since May so at this point I am willing to try anything. So today was going to be my day to sign up with and now that ppl have shared their experience I won’t check it out!!!
I also had an unpleasant experience….
I to received a message after trying to apply for a job to call the 1-888 number to speak with a rep. after speaking to the rep. and answering questions about pay requirements, experience and so forth even going as far as asking if I would be interested in work from home jobs when I had JUST told him that all I have found are scams or to low paying with no benefits and no room for growth. He said that they guarantee an offer within 30 days if not then they start the process over again…Then he transferred me to someone else to talk to me about going back to school….I inform this rep. from the get go, that I am looking for a job not really interested in going back to school. It is not even something that I can think about right now….Now it has been 2 1/2 weeks since I signed on with. I have NOT RECEIVED a SINGLE email with job listings, but I get freakin’ 8-22 calls a day from schools ( and yes I have been keeping up with it hehehe) and a lot of the calls are from the same number or school….I have talked with reps. from 2 of the schools a couple of times now and have told them that I am not interested in going back to school right now that I am looking for a job and that school does not pay the bills RIGHT NOW. One of them proceeded to basically call me a loser, “Well if you had gone to school you would not be unemployed” so I came back with (I do not normally talk to phone reps. like this, I am myself manage a call center for a software company) “Look A**HOLE I have a job I manage a CALL CENTER for a software company, just looking for more job growth, but I tell you what NO NOT EVER CALL THIS NUMBER AGAIN. After the way you just talked to me I would not even consider going to the school that you represent!” and hung up on him. This was Friday morning they called again 4 hours later, then again 2 more times on Saturday, 4 more times on Sunday and every for the last for days 2-5 times a day.
DO NOT CALL YOU WILL NOT BE HAPPY WITH THE OUTCOME!!!!!!!!
Sorry folks just noticed a few typos…I hate it when I post something with typos and can not fix it…ARRRGH!!!!!!
Hello,
I recently resigned from a job and found myself looking for a new job and checked out indeed.com (as well as craigslist, monster, simplyhired, linkedin, all the regular places) and one job in particular stood out. I “applied” for this job, then a screen appeared saying I must call an 800 number to have a “phone interview”. Then a guy gave me an awkward, high pressure sales pitch trying to get me to go back to school with a place called Education Dynamics. Here is the ploy: 1. Post real or fake jobs 2. Suckers call you 3. Sell their information to third parties 4. Get kickbacks and commissions when third parties sell to job seekers. This started out as a weird virtual economy where idiots pay each other to do labor (startups are always terrible ideas), then they figured out that won’t work, so they became a fake staffing agency that deals in people’s information. Anyway, they takes my information and says things like “We only want to help candidates who take their career seriously, and that means going back to school” and “You’ve been very professional with me, now I am going to transfer you over to Education Dynamics and I want you to show them the same professionalism you showed me, because I know these guys and if you are rude to them i don’t think we can help you.” (basically, I am being treated like a little tiny baby and if I don’t put up with their crap sales pitch they won’t help me) I talked to Dave at Education Dynamics, but he let me get off the phone in under 5 minutes because I have a loan in default. This is the first time I have been grateful about being in default. So, now I get emails from them everyday with alleged jobs I can apply to. Whenever possible I try to find what company it is for and go straight to their website instead of going through them. I can’t wait to see who ends up with my information a few years from now.
I just wish I had read thissooner. Im waiting for the e mail to come after I gave my info. This email is supposed to allow ne to fill out the app online for the job I was trying to apply for. How is it our government allows companies such as this exsist? I dont see what these companies even gain from my info. Im obviously broke or else I wouldnt be going on their site to seek employment. They can gain nothing but my debt if they want me so bad that is what they can have. I do wish there was a way we can get places like this shut down.
Now days later im back to square 1 with job search I wish I could sue them for wasting my time
I also posted information online and i am so frustrated with myself for getting scammed. Although I was lucky that i didn’t post my resume because I was to lazy to do it at the time they still got my phone number and adresss.
I spoke with a “guy” and like others have mentioned his voice sounded kinds of lime a machine to me. Then before I was transferred to a n advisor for school he started to explain things one more time about job listings. At that moment I couldnt hear what he was saying, it soubded like a robot voice. I became skeptical but continued with the call anyway. Wheb the advisor told me about online classes i said no thanks abd she automatically hung up, telling me she would call me back when there were classes available. I got an email with for acting as an extra. First of all I am not a good public speakwr, why would i want to be an extra. When i tried to submit my no thanks page it wouldn submit. This is not what I wabt to do with my life.
Since the same job keeps popping up I thought i would google it and I came across your blog. Needles to say next time something does not feel right, I will follow my instincts.
I also talked to Will and hung up on him before he could tell me anything more about this company. I saw that it was a scam and cut it lose. I hope I don’t get a bunch of calls.
I am so glad I found this website. I knew something didn’t seem right about this. I talked to a career specialist. & it sound like I was talking to an automatic machine. He asked me a few questions about my job preference then more than half the time spent his time asking questions about school & tried to transfer me to an advisor for schools & I told him I didn’t need to talk to one because I’m already enrolle in a school but don’t start classes until the next semester. & He hurried & rushed me off the phone after that. I shoulda knew it was a scam because what job wants to get yo into school while working for them.? Nobody.! I’m just glad I didnt give them any personal information. I think it’s wrong to scam on people who are just trying to find a job & better their lives.
I just hung up from them and you WERE talking to a computer! It’s responding to trigger words with pre-recorded answers. I had applied for a job online and got a text to call so I did. I really wasn’t sure and when I said I felt like I was talking to a computer his response was ”he-he am I that good?” and then went on with his spiel to get me to agree to 3 things. I mentioned the computer sound again and I got the same exact response. There’s a pause after you ask a question; it must be the system searching for the answer to a trigger word. I hung up. Weird. And thanks for nothing! I need a job not a scam artist!!
It was obvious from the text message requesting a return call. I called to stick toe in water. Dude answering was caught off guard when I told him I would have to call him back. He had nerve enough to ask why. So, I obliged him stating I had to hit the showers and do some stuff….
Add Spirit Airlines to an ever-growing list of NON-opportunities as their bait-and-switch method of getting you to enroll in worthless, expensive and unaccredited “education”. Rest assured, there IS a special place in hell for people like you who prey upon and scam those who are legitimately looking to better their lives. You ARE under scrutiny.
Dear Will,
Please delete my resume, name, address, e-mail address and phone number, along with any of my personal information.
I do not want to be contacted by anyone from your company and my personal information is not to be shared with any other entity.
A copy of this e-mail is being forwarded to my attorney as well as the Better Business Bureau and area Chambers of Commerce.
You might want to google this scam- it is being portrayed as a scam and “bait and switch” business. Some ugly stuff is on facebook, also. Your company
may want to reconsider how it is marketing itself, and retrain its “placement specialists” to be forthright with its mission and come off a little less like used car salesmen.
This is the letter I sent to my “specialist”. I hung up mid interview after asking him a few questions (after I found this blog). Glad I didn’t go further, but definitely sending info to are Chambers and businesses.
Thanks for your information- I will be a little wiser in the future.
ugh! I am so disappointed. For the first time in weeks I felt like I found the answer to finding my dream job. I just ended my phone call with them and decided to look up reviews, and I am so glad I did. First I received a text message saying, “Call me now for the American Airlines position.” Working there is my dream, so I followed through and spoke with a man who sounded like he had no idea what he was talking about. I didn’t have 45 minutes to sit and talk with him right then so he agreed to call back at 4pm. WELL, at 4:30, I decided to give them a call instead. This time, a woman answered the phone without mention of me having had just spoken with a male earlier. The woman on the phone was very polite and easy to get along with. She sounded very understanding of my situation and kept pushing the importance of furthering my education. I kept asking questions towards the end of the conversation because I had the feeling that I wasn’t given enough information on how the whole process works and how it is truly that easy. It is obvious to me now that she was trying to rush me off the phone after she confirmed my email and phone number.
I feel so scammed! ugh! why would anyone in their right mind work for them?? Sounds like they should hire a recruiter and find new jobs! Makes me sick!
Same thing just happen to me a few hours ago… Idk if its to late but I’m abt to change my number and anything else that can be changed. Ugghhh things like this makes me really upset.
I just want to thank you for writing this blog. I applied for a job through georgia labor website and upon my application I was re-directed. It seemed too good to be true. I never followed up with the email but they still have my personal information and it worries me, what can I do to stop it. I was on the phone I started googling and everything that popped up was scam. I am nervous with my information out there and enraged that this con is happening to the people of America who are struggling to find work. Is there anyway I can salvage my information? Once again. I am thankful that I have stumbled across your blog. It might have saved me from a disaster.
katie
Thank you Katie!
I am very grateful that this blog helped you and thankful that you were willing to share your own experience.
Since dealing with this type of scam, I haven’t gotten any unwanted e-mails or phone calls, but if you are concerned about your information you could try could logging in (if you created an account) and replace your information with bogus information (fake address, and incorrect contact information).
Hope this helps.
I want to let everyone know about the problem that I have had. Like most others I registered and did the interview as well. I have an actual email address to the “counselor”that I spoke with. I tried to log back in and change my information as suggested and I can’t get back in. I wrote down my login and password and when I try to log in it tells me that my password isn’t valid. I tried to use the forgot password link and nothing happens. I have also tried to contact my “counselor” and had no success or response from there either. My only advice is DON”T DO ANYTHING. and especially DON’T register on these websites. Any posting they list, I look up the company and try to find their information online elsewhere and send my resume or information to the email directly instead of going through a pre screen.
Good luck everyone!!!!
I really wish I would have read these blogs before wasting my time. but the very same thing happened to me. I caught on pretty quickly though. I logged in and tried to apply for the jobs but was hit with “this job posting is no longer available”. Then i tried it again and it led me to ANOTHER “job helping” site and asked me to fill out form, by that time i went to google and this came up. Im very happy i only put in 30 minutes worth of my time, still angry.
NEW YEARS RESOLUTION: Be more skeptical of companies who want my personal info….then maybe I won’t be scammed AGAIN…. I’m afraid I am yet another victim of this scheme…All I did was get harassed relentlessly by email and phone…All I wanted was a job, and now, chances are that I have been a victim of identity theft…I think all those “job sites are scams”# What a shame
did anything happen personally with your personal information? other than emails and phone calls??
Gee, wish I had read this before I scheduled the call. I’m on the phone with them right now…yikes!
Double Yikes! Hang up now. I repeat. Hang up now!
Thanks for this. I also had a bad experience, but thought it might have just been something I didn’t understand about their process. I’m clearly not alone….makes me leery of online job postings.
Have to agree… Very suspicious since they texted me on my cell phone. I NEVER give out that number and when I called them back and asked how they got my number they would not answer. I asked numerous times and they finally disconnected when I told them I was not interested in furthering my education which is apparently they’re goal.
Hello Peg,
Very suspicious indeed. I’ve never received a call or text from them, but did you fill out an application but didn’t call? They are known to call if you don’t call them when instructed. Also, with all of those ghost job postings out there; who knows where our information goes. They could also be posting ghost job listing on various job listing sites as way to obtain peoples information.
Hello, I received a text message from them this morning in response to an ad I answered for office specialist. I thought it was odd, seeing as an employer would never text me to come in for an interview, right? To prepare for my call back I went on line to pull up the help wanted post. The jobs I answer usually come up in my google search box, but this one was not there, so I retrieved it from my history folder. On second glance, the post for the job is very vague. All it really contained was a form asking me to fill in my personal information. The job description did not contain employer information. Then, I did some research and found your informative scam alert sight; brilliant! So, I called the number back and an automaton like operator answered the phone. I thought his voice sounded like a recording. There were a few brief seconds of silence as I asked him to repeat his name. He told me his name and said he was a recruiter for the employer, and his job is to screen applicants. So, I said to him you already have my resume, my personal information and employment history. Its only fair you tell me now about this company, such as what is the name of the firm looking for an office specialist? He said he couldn’t do that. He was hired to continue the evaluation process and then and only then, if he thought I was a good match would he reveal company information. In addition, he gets paid by the employer to select the best candidate. Plus, the interview would take about 30 minutes. I said no. This does not work for me. You already know all there is to know about me. Goodbye. That’s that! Thank you for the heads up!!
The pleasure is all mine Cariale!
Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Much thanks to everyone who posted their experiences. It’s a good thing I checked this blog today, because I just received my second text to call them, concerning a job which I had applied for a few days ago. This blog has proved to be very informative and has saved me a lot of time and ‘Brilliant Science’.
I also went through the exact same things… I was moved onto a education counselor and I just graduated. So, what is up? I told them I have nearly 20k in student loan repayments plus interest=nearly 40K. Once the guy realized I definately was not interested in more educatonal debt or jumping right back into a college (for what) he rushed me off of the line.
Now, when I received the follow up e-mail…. I completed (what the termed) the final processing of my application. I clicked finish and the Job was not even available… All I got was a blank screen! I went back to see what was going on and saw a message that read if no link pops up and a blank screen appears… The job is no longer available. So why the ‘Blip’ was I not told this by the rep who waisted all my time on the phone for the so-called final process of a phone interview. Yea! I would say this is definately a shady deal!!!!! If my phone starts ringing monday with the chaos everyone else has posted……………………..
So, someone with power needs to investigate. Our valuable information is now in the hands of this company. They list on their site how fast they have aquired members at a rate 9times faster than FACEBOOK. “We guarantee that we will find you placement in less than 90 days!” How are they going to guarantee me anything??? I was waiting for them to request money… But, I believe they get their $$$$$ from forwading us on to the Education personel for the leads. Maybe this is the entire SCAM.
I called after getting an email to call at a specific time,. I was on hold for 10 min at least. Michael came on and we talked. He said my name “Milton” about 75 times during the conversation, was polite-he was stern on the “job a day” and my need to answer to each job “offer” with a yes or a why I am not interested. Then we waited while he hooked me up to an advisor. I had stated that I would not get into 20-50 grand + in debt if I had no job. But I did admit that I have never written school off. After we waited another 10 min, I was finally told let’s try again tomorrow (It was time for him to leave work). I was not asked for any personal info or resume, just email (tho he knew my address-must have seen my res out there)-After reading all this, I will tread lightly. I shoulda guess that every time I actually get a call or email from an application, it’s only a college offer or scam to get my credit card info (remember, never leave cc # even if they say it’s a $1 cahrge to get your credit report. BIG red flag.
Oh, my. I wish I had looked this up before I entered any information. So unfortunate that these sorts of places exist.
I have been through the first page of registration- they just asked for basic things, address + phone number + name. I started feeling iffy when at the bottom, there were two radio buttons about how to receive job alerts- by e-mail, text, and phone call (who calls a job alert in to someone?) with a note that consent was not required for these ‘alerts.’ The other said by US mail only, with a note that I would have to send my own addressed and pre-stamped envelopes.
I wish I hadn’t continued past this screen. The next screen asked me to set up a phone appointment with the infamous career specialist, at which point I hit Google. Now I’m concerned that I’m going to get slammed with unwanted spam to my phone (not the least bit worried about my e-mail- I only use it for my resume) despite being on the Do Not Call registry. Any thoughts or advice?
Hello Assistant,
Your concern is very understandable, but don’t fret – I doubt you will be bothered with unwanted spam to your phone.
I had the same experience after I applied for an Office Associate job at Home Depot using that site. I was bombarded with lots of questions. During the lengthy conservation, there was never a mention about the position I was applying for. That same day I received many calls from online universities trying to get me to enroll. This is a complete waste of time. I can’t believe I fell for this scrap.
I just found this site after spending almost two hours on the phone with the “educational specialist”. I finally hung up after they wanted me to do a FASFA form and I was telling them I was really just looking for information today not to enroll and that second. My problem is they now have all my information SSN included. I also e-signed several documents. I sent an email to their representative and the Registrar stating I do not wish to enroll, do not send me any bills, spam, etc. Is that all I need to do? Am I on the hook for money despite getting no products? Will I be the victim of identity theft? If anyone has gotten to the point I did with these con artists please let me know if anything happened to you and if so what you did about it? I can’t believe these companies exist, I’ve dealt with three other scam companies or employment centers like this. Anyway any help would be much appreciated, thanks.
Hello Nate,
Wow Nate, I am truly sorry that your experience was this horrible.
I do not recall e-signing any documents or giving my SSN or the company asking for my SSN.
As long as you did not provide a credit or debit card you should not be charged for anything. Anytime you provide personal information about yourself that is
associated with your identity online (especially your SSN) you are at risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. If this is a concern, which I assume it is; then please make sure you keep tabs on your credit scores and credit report to make sure nothing suspicious is going on. Also, you may want to contact your bank and/or credit card company and ask them what security measures you should take to protect your personal account(s) from identity thieves.
I hope this helps.
You can also go to SS office and request a new SS#
Hello Melissa,
Yes, this is true. A new SSN can be requested, however eligibility is based on strong documentation of identity theft. Identity theft must be proven to the SS Office.
I had the same conversation with a someone this morning. It seemed legitimate until I saw this site. I haven’t received any e-mails or calls as yet but now I know what to look out for
Thank God, I didn’t get that far…I told the guy, ” this doesn’t sound right” and he kept talking! and with every sentence, he would say “OK”? I wanted to say? ” why do you keep saying OK over and over? Well, he kept talking, so I just hung up…! I had a feeling this was a scam!!! and it was!!!
We talk to automated machines!
I thought it was strange the way the “guy” was “answering” my questions with OK, so asked him more complex questions,( involving decision making) the ones that just a human being is able to answer: Bum! Got it: I lost my time with a machine
I just fell for this crap to. I felt like I was talking to a recording from the beginning, but I wasn’t sure. he asked me questions that I had already given answers to. then he asked me to hold on then asked if I was there I said yes and he just kept on saying “ok”. I hung up.
For someone who is actively seeking serious employment, this scam makes you feel like you’re one step closer until….. You get transferred to the “Educational Counselor”, who, in all actuality, was probably sitting right next to my “career counselor”. Once I had that funny feeling, I hung up and they did in fact call me back which only furthered my suspicions. I was told I would recieve a ‘Job Listings’. I guess there was only one job because I never recieved any other job. In fact the one they sent me wasn’t even the one I specified. All of these employment websites are linked. I’ve had better luck finding employment oppurtunities on Craigslist… Go figure!
I had the same experience, when he said educational counselor I said I would have to call you back I feel for it this morning ugh lol
I also fell for the scam I wish there was some type of site that we could turn all these scamers into and the government would shut them down. Its a shame that they use and abuse persons who just want to work for a living. I became very suspicious when the operator said the same thing 3xs and didn’t listen at all to what I said. Then I said If I do a Google search and find out this is a scam I will be pissed the machine said good bye and hung up. Its a shame that people want to do things like that to people.
The registration process feels like signing your phone, email and facebook over to solicitors. Asking the OS of your smart phone is a huge red flag. That prompted me to search and I found this. Incidentally I got the link to the job and registration process through Indeed.com. I am beginning to think they are all scams. In lieu of being unemployed, it would be a rather clever and ironic niche of websites to get into.
Hello Roberto,
It is very ironic indeed.
Many of the of the so called job networking sites are scams, and I find it annoying that many of these site do not have a delete your account option; just in case you find a job or if choose not to use their website anymore. It makes you wonder why the heck they need your information if you are no longer looking for a job, but I digress. You are better off using other sites such as Careerbuilder.com or Monster.com (at least you can delete your account once you’ve found a job), though finding a job on those can be daunting. Unfortunately, there are a few scam jobs on those sites, too. A job seekers best option is to apply for a job on a the company’s website or on LinkedIn.
This is a scam. The jobs that is on their website is nothing more than a reflection of other jobs posted.. Its a scam to lure you into thinking your applying for work when they really want to obtain your info to sell to colleges– mainly online colleges. Then if you ” qualify” after you speak to a college rep then the employee gets paid. At that point you may or may not recieve job listings but you will definately recieve calls upon calls from colleges almost the second you hang up.
I fell for the scam too. iam a new grad, and was seeking employment. But I later found out that the job posted was not related to my field. I tried contacting them, but no response
They are people who get paid to lie to you but they give you information on furthering your education and try to match you to the right college I fell in this hole ! Scam scam scam
Hi Kelly,
As everyone else as said, I am too so so so glad to have found out about this and that they are a scam!!! I just hung up from talking to several people within the “company” and then I fell for the higher education question and was transferred over to an Online School in Arizona who could help me finish “my education whilst working”. All in all it took me over 40 mins to have these conversations. I must say they are good at sucking me in and I was about to respond to the e-mail, so I could receive jobs listings but I am not going to now. Did have a funny feeling after hanging up…. Only problem is they have a copy of my resume which was asked to download before I knew about this….what should I do, will I have problems or will they use my information? I feel a bit scared that they have this information on me….. any advice would be greatly appreciated and thanks to you and all that have come forward and alerted/shared their experiences regard to job scams.
Cheers,
V
Hi! I just had a conversation on the pone as well, i got the feeling that was faked concerned or sometimes automated. I am graduating next week, and told im that I do plan on furthering my education, I mean I am 21, a traditional student i didn’t need help finding the school I need and want. After telling them that I am currently enrolled. She quickly ended the conversation.
Why hello everyone,
Wow I was scammed to we need to get them shut down. I saw this blog to late I am a veteran looking for a job this man said he would help me. I’m so glad I found this
Greetings Rebecca,
First of all, Happy Veteran’s Day Rebecca!
Secondly, I am glad that this information helped you and yes, they should be shut down. All of us sharing similar experiences about other scammers is a start.
Thank you for the warning. Although I found this blog a little too late since I talked to a career specialist. He kept telling me I sounded like a motivated and driven individual (which by the tone in my voice, I sounded like a complete you know what) The representative went on to ask me questions about furthering my education. I said I would not like to go back to school, but he kept on insisting “Well if your new job required having a degree would you go back” I kept saying “NO!” This is definitely a scam. I also asked what position I applied for and he said “Oh I’m not able to look that information up, I’m just in charge of finding you a new career.” Yeah, I’m sure you are. I hope everyone turns away from this company!
Hi Emily,
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Sadly, this is what these companies do. They lure hopeful job seekers and then ask a whole bunch of questions about if you would like to go back to
school to further you education. While most employers would appreciate an employee with an advanced degree; it is not always required (except for doctors, lawyers, or teaching professionals) Many employees just want to know if you have the experience and if you are capable of doing the job.
I was just applying for a positon at Sutter Health, well I had the strangest feeling about the pre screning, I knew this was going to be a school scam. I spoke to what sounded like a computer man. I was advised I would be on the line 30 minutes! I advised him or it I could not at this time. I am at a place of Business. He then rescheulded me for a call at 3.00. I quickly gooled and I am glad I did!
I did upload my resume against better judgement.They know we are desperate for jobs and someone always has to try and take advantage of people, just looking to support ourselves.!Lets SHUT EM down!
Hi there Tracy,
Thank you for sharing your experience.
Just like you,I went against my better judgment and went through the registration process.
I am glad that this information helped you and yes, they should be shut down. All of us sharing similar experiences with is a start.
Yes, yes and yes. I just had a nearly identical experience, but at least I was on a headset and could still do chores while this fellow gave me the rabbit hole treatment.
He was – or seemed to be very friendly and helpful- after awhile a little too much. “I hear that” he said repeatedly, as if to try to bond or something. I must admit I was honest and forthcoming at first, and should have known no legitimate screener would ask the questions he was, or give a FF about my answers.
I was wary and started to question his motives and called him out in some obvious contradictions while he was trying to hand me off to an “education adviser”. He asked me again if I was seriously continuing my education, and I kept saying, “No, I am interested in finding a job.”
I got into verbally fencing with him, but as someone said, “what fun is a duel with an unarmed man?” He ultimately called me an “intellectual” as a somewhat belittling way of possibly indicating he wasn’t really keeping up. When he asked me again if I was seriously continuing my education in the next 2 or three months, I finally said “No.” Not good enough. He continued, and I finally had enough and told him I was ending the conversation and to not contact me again.
I wish I had thought to look here while I was on the phone, I would have loved to read him a posting or two. I would have liked to asked him “Well, what about your education and your career path?” And as it happens, the position for which I was attempting to apply did not even exist, I had let myself think that maybe these guys had an inside track.
So, I got about halfway through the registration with them when I decided to quit it and look them up. I am so glad I did when I did. They already have my information, though… I was wondering, however, what should I do? Do they only send a bunch of junk e-mails, fake calls, and stuff to me or do they do anything more with the information that I gave them??? If it is just the junk e-mails and stuff, I can manage. If they do more than that like sign me up for stuff that I had no idea about, then I am a little more worried…………….
I am glad you posted this. People should know about this ridiculous scam!!
-A concerned Trainer
Hi there Pichu,
Thank you!
You were one of the lucky ones. I’d wished I had done some digging before going through the entire process. How far did you get into the registration process?
Thank you for sharing you experience with us. I have tried using g— a couple of months ago and found them very frustrating. When I filled out my information on their website, I was told to call their number at a certain day and time. When I called, they had me waiting on the line for a very long time. The pre recorded voice kept saying to stay on the line, your call is very important to us, g—-s is an amazing company, etc. After awhile I got frustrated and hung up.
A couple days later I received a call from a woman saying that they received my information and she was wondering if I was interested in going back to school. I told her that I’m only interested in looking for a job and that I have two degrees for two different schools. After trying to pressure me to go back to school, she became very rude and hung up on me.
I think its wrong for companies to do that. There are a lot people who are really looking for jobs and companies like this are just wasting people’s time.
Hello Katrina,
In your response you mentioned a very interesting piece of information. I was unaware that these companies could call back if the caller in question hung up. You Katrina just relieved a something about them. All of this time they have telling job seekers to call the number on their screen to complete their submission; when in fact, they already have your information the moment you click submit.
Thanks for this post. I dealt with pre-screening job scams at one point. They promised to send me one job lead per day based upon my skills and preferences. If I promised to follow up to an offer per day for one month, they would guarantee me a job. Afterwards I realized to what I was responding! How could they guarantee ANYTHING. And that is not to mention, if they failed their guaranty, what are they accountable to do?
They did start sending me job offers – supposedly based upon my skills and preferences. I have no idea what they were using for their matrix but I don’t see any connection to Graphic Design or creative fields that I was seeking to the night-shift medical assistant or medical data entry jobs they kept sending me.
Either they are out to snuff the job seeker or they are not very good at their job. #becareful
Hello Ian,
You’re welcome Ian!
Pre-screening job sites are a complete waste of time. As you already know they claim to match you up with possible jobs based on your
education and qualifications, but there is no guarantee that any of the jobs either exist or are available. Also, what you mentioned about irrelevant job matches is true. It makes you wonder if they were paying attention to you while you were on the phone with them explaining your education, qualifications, and job experience; but then again why would they?
Beyond.com did the same to me as well, similar to Kelly’s experience. The job I was applying for was at GM for a graphics position. There was another of the same type of scam but I don’t remember where it was from or what job it was for. Typical bait a switch routine. These people have no morals, they feed on the ones that need and want hope and jobs for a better life. Now when I get a call from an employer for a possible position I make sure to get a straight answer on if this is a bait & switch routine. I tell them right off that I am in no mood for games with this. It’s very unfortunate that you have to do that to the honest calls but you have no recourse. Sometimes people just suck.
Hello Paul,
The more people like you share their experiences with companies like this better informed others will be. I am thankful that you shared you experience. Making sure that you get a straight answer from
a possible employer to make sure you are not being duped seems like a good strategy.
I even asked the career specialist about the authenticity of the pre screening, but of course he shied away and passed me right to the help desk operator.
OMG I just went through another of Ayman A. El-Difrawi a/k/a Alec Difrawi telemarketing scam Gigats. Wow they are good. They and Beyond.com
lead you to believe they represent the company you’er applying to then they state, “if the position requires you to further your education
would you be interested in doing so.”
I hesitated and said, “well I guess if I was required to, but I have been to school and in business for many years, so I’m not really interested in going back
I’m simply looking for a job! Well I was transferred to a school rep. she started going through a pitch, while she was talking I quickly went on-line and looked up,
Is Gigats legit? what do you know I found this site and several others saying the same thing that this is a Alec Difrawi scam.
When I got off the phone with her I called the company I was applying to and they said they were not affiliated with Gigats and knew nothing about
Gigats being a screening agency for their company. So people we’ve learned a valuable lesson today,
which is check into everything and everyone before giving out info or using their services!
Gigats claim to be part of Softrock, Inc but the truth is they are managed and run by Education Dynamics
of New Jersery.
Contact Us
Corporate Headquarters
5 Marine View Plaza, Suite 212
Hoboken, NJ 07030
201-377-3000
Education Dynamic “FIND STUDENTS” tab says http://www.EducationDynamics.com has partnered with a call center that has extensive experience in higher education.
This allows us to manage your communications with prospective students who have expressed interest in your institution through telemarketing, tele-counseling, and electronic means.”
Note: “Education Dynamics has partnered with a call center”
http://educationdynamics.com/Find-Students/Products-and-Services/Educational-Web-Portals/Call-Center-Services.aspx
EducationDynamics is a portfolio company of Halyard Capital, a New York-based private equity fund with over $500 million of capital under
management focused on investing in media, communications and business services companies. The Fund specializes in middle-market leveraged buyouts,
growth equity and structured equity investments. Additional information regarding Halyard’s strategy, principals and investments can be found at http://www.halyard.com investments.
http://educationdynamics.com/About-Us/Who-We-Are.aspx
Hi Kelly,
I am so glad that you shared your experience and managed to do some digging of your own!
I have always felt that there was something mistrusting about Beyond.com, so I have never bothered to seek employment through them.
Your experience is very true in that these companies are not affiliated with many of the companies they claim they have jobs for. The production assistant job that was posted online, but some how magically disappeared after I endured their ‘pre-screening’ process and set up and account to apply for the job.
Hello, I work for the Chicago Public Library and came across this page on your blog. It was extremely useful that you posted this information and shared your experiences, because I was able to help out a patron who was frustrated by the job searching experience. Thanks again.
Hello there Chicago Librarian,
I am thankful that this blog entry helped you in assisting with a frustrated job seeker! It is a shame that there are some companies out there that are taking advantage of job seekers in this way.