SINGAPORE — Travel agencies are warning against scammers pretending to be employees of them and offering part-time marketing jobs for up to $200 a day.
On its website, Chan Brothers Travel has warned customers about the new scam, adding that scammers approach potential victims via text or WhatsApp and claim to represent the agency.
At least two other agencies, WTS Travel and CTC Travel, told the Straits Times they were aware of such messages involving scammers posing as their staff.
In posts seen by ST, these “jobs” offer up to $200 a day, claiming that no prior experience is necessary as training will be provided.
Mr Jeremiah Wong, Senior Director of Marketing Communications for Chan Brothers Travel, said: “In any case, our organization will not send unsolicited text messages or WhatsApp messages from any overseas number making dangle job offers.
“Our Human Resources department and all staff involved in hiring will always formally follow up via their email addresses in all correspondence with potential candidates throughout the recruitment process.”
None of the travel companies are aware of any victims who lost money to the scam in June.
But Chan Brothers Travel has reported on ScamShield, so the phone numbers used by scammers can be blocked.
Ms. Kelly Toh, CTC Travel Marketing Manager, said the agency advertises its vacancies on MyCareersFuture.sg
She added: “We do not engage third-party services for our recruitment. Most of our staff come from referrals or apply through legitimate job platforms.”
A spokesperson for WTS Travel said that as it hires marketing staff to boost its online presence, it will ask candidates to send CVs and will only contact those it has shortlisted.
Tourism experts said the emergence of these new fraudulent advertising marketing jobs comes as travel agencies prepare to handle more customers now than popular destinations such as Japan – which allows small tour groups – reopened to tourists.
Since April 1, all fully vaccinated travelers can enter Singapore without quarantine, which has fueled travel demand, Wong said.
Dr Michael Chiam, lecturer in tourism at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, said: “With an increase in the number of people traveling again, it is not unreasonable to assume that travel agents will have to rehire.
“Perhaps that’s why scammers are taking advantage of the situation and targeting local travel agencies and those looking for job opportunities in this industry.”
Mr. Steven Ler, President of the National Association of Travel Agents of Singapore (Natas), said: “Recruitment advertisements via messaging apps are unusual and should be checked. Travel agents usually recruit through a legitimate online job portal, job fairs and recruitment agencies.
“Job seekers should always take precautionary measures when receiving job offers that are questionable or that may seem too good to be true so as not to be compromised in any way.”
