Be suspicious of all unexpected emails, even when from @msvu.ca

  1. Unexpected emails (even from people you know) could be scams
  2. Unexpected email attachments could contain computer viruses
  3. If you receive an unexpected email or attachment, call (not email) the person to make sure it’s real
  4. Clicking on links in unexpected emails can link to viruses or password-stealing forms
  5. Forward suspicious emails to phishing@msvu.ca
UNICEF Internship Job Scam Email
Even emails appearing to be from @msvu.ca addressess can be scams

Research employers before applying

  1. Look out for imposter companies that use similar-looking – but misspelled – website addresses and email addresses
  2. Look up the address on Google Maps to see if the address is real; make sure the name of the employer on Google Maps matches the job posting
  3. See the Career Services Work and Volunteer webpage for how to research employers

Beware of jobs that are too good to be true

  1. Is the pay too high for the hours of work and responsibilities?
  2. Is the job title too advanced for a student position, such as a director or a manager level position with little experience required?
  3. Is the job description vague?

Know what is a normal hiring process

  1. Getting hired over email or through instant messaging apps like Telegram or Facebook Messenger is not normal
  2. See this infographic on what is normal in the hiring process

Know What Is Normal In Job Interview Process

Never deposit cheques for an employer

  • These cheques will bounce, and you (not the bank) will lose the money
  • Being asked to deposit an image of a cheque using your banking app is highly suspicious
Sample Fake Cheque Image
Never deposit cheque images that were emailed to you from supposed employers using mobile banking apps

Don’t pay for expenses using your own money

  1. Your employer should supply you with the tools for the job, not the other way around
  2. You are responsible for paying back your credit card for purchases you make

Don’t transfer money to your employer

They should pay you, not the other way around.

See something, say something

Please report suspicious emails to phishing@msvu.ca, or contact Career Services or the IT&S Help Desk for assistance.

If you think you are a victim of fraud

Getting scammed is very stressful, so please see our Fraud Recovery page for things you can do to protect yourself.