Fake ads posted by scammers are nothing new and the latest in this type of scam involves fake Bunnings and Kmart job ads targeting those looking for a job.
As this is a big safety issue, we're going to take a look at what the scam is, what to look out for, and how to stay safe from these unsavoury scammers.
Just remember that if you need support or someone to talk to, our Sonder support team is available 24/7 to chat whenever you need it.
What is this Kmart/Bunnings job ad scam?
Scammers use these fake job ads to trick people into handing over money and/or their personal details by offering a "guaranteed" way to make a lot of money with very little effort.
As the title on the tin suggests, this scam involves scammers posting up fake job ads on social media or through fake emails, text messages or fake websites for Kmart and Bunnings. These fake ads advertise some eye-catching wages (between $48 to $60 an hour) and some very attractive work perks, such as flexible working conditions and no experience necessary.
Needless to say, the advertised wage and job perks are too good to be true but it's an effective way to catch unsuspecting people in need of a job.
What has caught some unsuspecting people out is the use of official Bunnings and Kmart logos in these fake ads:
The fake Bunnings ad directs interested people to click through to a link, which goes to a phishing website designed to steal personal information. The fake Kmart ad works in a similar way but directs interested people to a WhatsApp number and asks them for personal information instead.
What to do to stay safe
If you spot this fake Bunnings/Kmart job ad or received a phishing email or text containing the ad, the first thing is to avoid opening it and report it to Scamwatch.
If you've accidentally clicked on the link in these fake ads, do not enter any information in the site you're directed to.
If you've shared personal or financial details with the scammers, you need to:
Contact your bank immediately to let them know what happened and ask what they can do to help.
Change the passwords for any online accounts that might be at risk. Make sure to enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
If you've shared personally sensitive information, such as your driver's licence, passport details, or contact details, visit IDCare for assistance on how to address potential identity theft.
File a report with the Australian Cyber Security Centre here.
Bunnings is aware of the fake job ads and states that there are several other scams that use its logo and name to trick people into giving out information. In addition to the fake job ad scam, other scams illegally using Bunnings' name and logo include:
Filling out a 'customer satisfaction' survey and giving personal details
Sharing, commenting and 'liking' a Facebook page
Calling a specified telephone number and providing personal information
Other organisations making contact to ‘confirm’ personal details
Claiming a ‘prize’ in a Bunnings branded email and filling in personal information to collect the prize.
The household hardware giant states that it is in no way associated with any of the aforementioned activities and will never ask for personal information or banking details in unsolicited communications.
Kmart is also aware of these fake ads and has warned jobseekers to stay vigilant, stating that those who aren't sure whether a Kmart job advert is legit can reach out to kmartgroupcareers@kmart.com.au to confirm or visit its official careers website to see what roles are available.
If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app.
Image credit: Marcus Wong at Flickr
All content is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional.