POLICE are investigating an alleged jobs scam, thought to be based in Huddersfield.
And they are warning jobseekers to be wary of the scheme that has affected 20 people across West Yorkshire, some who have been stung for hundreds of pounds.
Officers In every district of West Yorkshire have received reports that jobseekers, predominantly aged 18-22, have lost hundreds of pounds after responding to fraudulent adverts on job websites.
Typically, a jobseeker replies to an advert on a website via a hotmail address, they receive a phone call from a man, a phone interview takes place and the victims are asked for their bank details so a credit check can be carried out against them.
Days later the victims receive a call from the fraudster, telling them that money has been paid into their accounts by mistake.
When the victims pay the money back, they discover that loans have been taken out in their names.
A 25-year old Huddersfield man has been arrested in connection with the fraud and is currently on bail pending further enquiries.
The police are urging people not to provide bank details to people over the phone. The only time such details should be given is in writing at the point of formally accepting a job.
Victims should contact PC Lynsey Fitzgerald at the Huddersfield North Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.
