Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but for one software engineer, the experience turned into a nightmare. Taking to Reddit, he shared a detailed account of how he was almost scammed during what appeared to be a legitimate interview for a software engineering role in Delhi.
The post has since gone viral, resonating with many fresh graduates and job seekers who might face similar situations.
It Started with a Promising Job Offer
The engineer recalled receiving a call from a consultancy claiming they were recruiting for top companies through a third-party agency. The job listing appeared credible, as it was found on a reputed job portal. Without suspecting anything amiss, he arrived at the designated “office.”
A Shady Setup Raises Alarms
On reaching the location, he immediately noticed something was wrong. The building appeared shady, and bouncers stood guard at the entrance. Despite his unease, he went inside, where he was greeted by a woman who introduced herself as part of the HR team.
“She showed me pictures of people she claimed to have placed in top companies like Microsoft,” he said. However, things started to feel suspicious when the woman asked questions about his software skills but did not seem to care about his answers.
Demand for ₹3,000 Confirms the Scam
To test the interviewer’s credibility, the engineer intentionally gave wrong answers to technical questions. Despite his deliberate errors, the interviewer praised his performance and then asked for ₹3,000 as a “placement fee.”
“I only had ₹500 on me and convinced her I’d get the rest from outside,” he recounted. Once outside, he managed to escape, evading a bodyguard who had followed him.
A Traumatizing Experience
The ordeal left him shaken and disheartened during his job hunt. “It’s sad that scammers prey on innocent people,” he wrote, sharing his story to raise awareness.
Support Pours In
His post drew widespread attention, with many users thanking him for his warning. Others shared similar experiences of being duped by fake job consultancies.
A Warning for Job Seekers
This incident highlights the importance of verifying job offers and researching companies thoroughly before attending interviews. Young job seekers, particularly fresh graduates, are often vulnerable to such scams.
Tips to Avoid Job Scams
- Research the Company: Look for official websites, reviews, and registered office locations.
- Avoid Upfront Payments: Legitimate companies do not demand money for interviews or placements.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
This cautionary tale serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during the job search process.
