Internships

As we reach the height of job/internship offer season, the Center for Career Opportunities (CCO) is writing to share some useful information with you about fraudulent job postings and suspicious activities related to recruiting.

While the Center for Career Opportunities is constantly working to stop such occurrences within MyCCO, sometimes something gets by our attention. This email is meant to share information with you that will help you to identify and address such instances should students come to you as their academic advisor with questions or concerns.

Red Flags – Be Warned

  • You are asked to send money, provide credit card/bank account numbers, cash or deposit checks, or wire transfer money as part of the application process.
  • You are asked for your social security number, or other important documentation, when responding to a job posting.
  • The email address you’re asked to send your application materials to is an email from a free email service provider (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.). Do keep in mind that there may be times when legitimate startup employers may use such emails. If unsure, ask us!
  • The job listing uses incorrect spelling, poor grammar, or is too good to be true.
  • You are offered a job without an application, interview, or discussion with the employer.
  • The salary details in your job offer aren’t clear. Carefully investigate the details so that you know what you can expect.

Protect Yourself

  • Do not send money, provide account numbers, cash checks received or provide you social security number during the application process.
  • Research an employer to ascertain their legitimacy. If a phone number is available, call them and ask if they are currently recruiting at Purdue. 
  • Remember personal physical safety. If invited to an interview, make sure the venue is a legitimate business location. When in doubt, ask for a virtual interview.
  • Do not depend on spoken promises, get it in writing!

If You Suspect a Scam

  • Contact the CCO at 765-494-3981 or via email at askcco@purdue.edu
  • If this incident occurred on a website other than a Purdue domain, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
  • If money has already been sent to a fraudulent employer, contact PUPD at their non-emergency number: (765) 494-8221