Jobsdb by SEEK has released new insights into employment fraud trends across the operating markets, revealing how scammers adapt their tactics to exploit local job market conditions and economic needs.
The analysis, based on internal fraud detection data from SEEK’s platforms across its eight operating markets in APAC—Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines—reveals that Hong Kong’s job market demonstrates a significantly lower incidence of fraudulent activity across these markets.
From the data, the most fraudulent job ads are seen in entry‑level roles, with Hong Kong following a similar pattern.
Job Scams most targeted category: Administration & Office Support
The data shows that Administration & Office Support roles remain the primary target across all markets. In APAC markets, this category is the most targeted for job ads, accounting for 24% of the total, while Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics accounts for 13%. The next three spots were taken by Sales (7%), Retail & Consumer Products (6%) and Trades & Services (6%).
“Administration and office support roles are particularly vulnerable because they typically don’t require specialised degrees or extensive experience,” said Tom Rhind, SEEK’s Head of Trust & Safety.
“Sales positions show similar patterns, as these roles often promise immediate employment and commission-based earnings that appeal to jobseekers in urgent need of income.
“Combined, these entry-level categories create larger pools of potential victims and make it easier for scammers to cast wide nets with convincing-looking opportunities.”
The analysis, based on fraud detection data from SEEK, found Hong Kong’s fraud case rate stands at approximately 0.0035%, about 18 times lower compared to the APAC average of 0.067%.
Bill Lee, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Jobsdb by SEEK, explained, “Hong Kong’s unique market structure, which is highly regulated and dominated by large, registered corporations, provides a strong foundation for our security measures.
“This environment means fraudulent activity is more likely to stand out and be blocked before it ever reaches a jobseeker.”
“We are seeing scammers adapt, using AI to write flawless copy and moving conversations to social media and instant messaging platforms,” Lee continued. “This is why it is crucial for jobseekers to use trusted and verified platforms.”