PenCom Raises Fresh Alarm Over Job Recruitment Fraud Scams

According to Ireporter Online, the National Pension Commission has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians over a growing wave of online recruitment scams targeting unsuspecting job seekers across the country.

The commission raised the alarm after detecting an increase in fraudulent activities being carried out through multiple digital channels, including WhatsApp, email messages, and unsolicited phone calls. The alert was shared via its official account on X on Tuesday.

PenCom explained that the fraudsters typically pose as recruitment agents, sending fake job offers and demanding sensitive personal information from victims under the pretense of securing employment opportunities. In many cases, the scammers pressure individuals to respond quickly, often introducing a fake 48-hour deadline to create panic and reduce the chances of verification.

The commission further noted that these criminals frequently request confidential documents to be sent through informal platforms such as WhatsApp, often directing victims to forward information to so-called “secretaries,” a tactic identified as a clear warning sign of fraud. PenCom also revealed that some of the perpetrators have gone as far as impersonating the Director-General of the commission in an attempt to appear legitimate.

Officials cautioned the public against engaging with suspicious messages, stressing that job seekers should immediately delete such communications and avoid sharing them further. The commission emphasized that all employment-related information must be verified strictly through official channels to prevent falling victim to scams.

PenCom reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding pension assets and protecting public trust, noting that it is closely monitoring the situation and working to curb fraudulent schemes. The warning comes amid broader regulatory efforts, including recent actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission against hundreds of illegal investment operations nationwide.