Seattle, WA – Job seekers across King County are being urged to use extra caution today as deputies report a noticeable rise in employment-related scams circulating online and through unsolicited messages.
According to the King County Sheriff’s Office, the schemes often appear legitimate at first glance, using realistic job descriptions, professional-looking emails, or fake recruiter profiles to lure applicants. Deputies said the most common red flags involve requests for upfront payments, pressuring applicants to act quickly, or asking for personal or banking information before any formal hiring steps occur.
Officials emphasized several key safety tips: never pay to apply for a position, be cautious of unexpected job offers, verify employers using official company websites, and avoid sharing sensitive financial data during early communication. Many of the recent scams reportedly used variations of remote-work postings or part-time opportunities to encourage quick engagement.
Deputies added that if something “feels off,” applicants should trust their instincts and stop communication immediately. Legitimate employers will not require applicants to risk their safety, reveal banking information, or pay fees during the hiring process.
Law enforcement encourages residents to report suspicious job postings or recruiter contacts, as the information helps track emerging fraud patterns across King County and the broader Seattle metro. Anyone who believes they may have provided information to a fraudulent employer is urged to contact local authorities and monitor financial accounts for unusual activity.
This latest advisory comes as online hiring platforms continue to grow, giving scammers new openings to impersonate real companies. Deputies say awareness and quick reporting remain the strongest tools for preventing further victimization.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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