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Be safe when jobseeking

Jobcentre Plus have produced the following basic tips on how to stay safe when looking for work.

Telephone Numbers

You should never phone a premium rate number to find out more information about a job vacancy. This is because they are very expensive to call. Premium rate numbers usually start with the numbers 070 or 090.

If you phone a number starting with 0871 to ask about a job vacancy, it should be answered within five minutes. If it is not, do not:

• continue with the phone call
• keep trying to call the number

This is because calls to 0871 numbers can be expensive.

Asking or applying for a job

When asking or applying for a job you should never:

• give your personal financial details, like your bank account number
• give your National Insurance number
• give your date of birth
• give your driving licence number
• give your passport number
• give out copies of your utility bills
• provide a photograph
• provide any other details you believe to be personal

You may need to provide these details when you actually have a proper job offer or start a job.

You should also never:

• pay any fees upfront for help with job searches or training
• allow the interview to take place in your own home
• talk about personal matters that have nothing to do with the job
• accept a lift from the person interviewing you

You should always consider:

• finding out as much as you can about the company or the person the interview is with
• how you will get to the interview and back
• telling a friend or relative where you are going and what time you expect to be back
• trying to arrange for someone to collect you if the interview takes place outside normal working hours
• make sure the interview is at the company's place of work or in a suitable public place

For jobs that offer a place to live with them, always make sure you check out the accommodation before accepting the job. If possible don't go alone, even if this means a friend or family member has to wait outside for you.

Getting more help and advice

If you have any concerns about a job vacancy, please ask Jobcentre Plus for advice. For example, if you:

• think that the job is offering too much money for what it is
• are not sure about the company

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window