Have you received a WhatsApp message about a job from someone claiming to be from Outsource UK?
We’ve recently become aware of fraudsters impersonating Outsource UK recruiters by sending WhatsApp messages offering fake job opportunities. These messages are not from us, and they are being used to trick job seekers into sharing personal details or paying fees.
Worryingly, these scammers are now claiming they’ve found your phone number on our website to make the message seem more credible. This is not true.
This blog explains how to spot a recruitment scam, what to do if you're targeted, and how to protect yourself while job hunting.
🤔 What is a Recruitment Scam?
Recruitment scams are fake job offers used to obtain your personal information, financial details, or even money.
Scammers often impersonate legitimate recruitment agencies or consultants, using real company names, logos and job titles to appear credible.
We’re actively investigating recent reports of this happening with the Outsource UK name and urge all job seekers to be vigilant.
🔍 How to Spot a Fake Job Offer
Here are some common warning signs that you're being targeted by a recruitment scam:
1. Contacted via WhatsApp or message out of the blue
Scammers often send unsolicited messages, sometimes pretending they’ve found your CV or contact details online.
In recent cases, scammers have falsely claimed they got your number from the Outsource UK website - this is not true and is part of the deception.
2. Asked to pay money
You might be asked for a “registration fee,” “admin charge,” or “security deposit” to proceed with the role.
✅ Outsource UK will never ask for payment at any stage of the recruitment process.
3. Poor spelling, grammar, or formatting
Professional recruiters take care with communication. Look out for sloppy writing, inconsistent job details, or strange formatting.
4. Offers that seem too good to be true
Unrealistically high salaries, instant job offers, or roles without interviews are classic red flags.
5. Suspicious email addresses
Official Outsource UK emails always end with @outsource-uk.co.uk.
If you're contacted from a Gmail, Outlook or other free email domain, it’s likely a scam.
6. Pressure to act quickly
Scammers want you to respond before you have time to think or check. A genuine recruiter will give you time to consider a role.
✅ What Real Communication from Outsource UK Looks Like
We understand how important it is to know you’re dealing with a reputable recruiter. Here’s how to recognise legitimate contact from Outsource UK:
- We only send emails from our official domain: @outsource-uk.co.uk
- We do not ask for payment or banking details to secure interviews or job roles
- We will always confirm your interest and eligibility before progressing with any opportunity
- Please contact us directly at 01793 430021 or info@outsource-uk.co.uk to verify anything that doesn’t feel right
🚨 What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
Think you’ve been targeted by a recruitment scam? Take these steps immediately:
- Do not reply or click any links
- Do not share any personal information
- Report the number to WhatsApp as "suspicious"
- Take screenshots and save the scammer's contact details
- Report the scam to Action Fraud – the UK’s national centre for reporting cybercrime and fraud
- Contact your bank if you’ve sent money or shared personal financial information
- Call us on 01793 430021 or email info@outsource-uk.co.uk so we can investigate and report it from our side too.
🔐 How to Stay Safe While Job Searching
Here are our top tips to protect yourself when job hunting online:
- Always research the recruiter and agency
- Never send money or provide bank info upfront
- Stick to well-known job boards and official company websites
- Be suspicious of unsolicited messages with vague or generic job descriptions
- Trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is
🔗 Helpful Resources
For advice and to report job scams, visit:
- Action Fraud UK – Report fraud and get help
- Jobs Aware (formerly SAFERJobs) – Job search safety guidance
- National Cyber Security Centre – Cyber safety advice
💬 Help us Spread the Word
Please share this blog with friends, colleagues or anyone looking for work right now. Recruitment scams are rising across the UK, but together we can stop scammers in their tracks.
If you're ever unsure, call our team on 01793 430021 or email info@outsource-uk.co.uk - we're here to help.
Looking for real job opportunities? Visit our trusted vacancies at www.outsource-uk.co.uk.
