Fake Recruitment Agencies, Job Scams & The Correctional Services

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) recently released a press release warning the public about fake recruitment agencies and job scams in South Africa. Many of these shady outfits conduct their illicit activities using the name of the Department of Correctional Services. I personally applaud the department for reacting and creating awareness about these scams. Unfortunately, most times press releases are not shared as widely as a tweet or Facebook post.

The job scams mentioned in the Department of Correctional Services’ press release indicated that the scams were shared through social media and other channels. The shared posts invite members of the public to apply for employment and learnership opportunities. The department is now warning members of the public (you and I) against falling prey to these scam.

Please note that applying for employment in the public sector is free. Anyone asking for money for job applications is breaking the law.

The DCS uses mainstream the following channels to advertise job opportunities:

• Mainstream media (radio, television, and newspapers)
• The website of the Department of Public Services Administration (DPSA – http://www.dpsa.gov.za)
• Internal email notices

Report job scammers

The department warned that those posing as consultants or using online media platforms to impersonate the department are fraudsters/ scammers who must be reported to law enforcement agencies. The Department of Correctional Services calls upon anyone who may have information on these fraudsters/ scammers to report the matter to the government’s anti-corruption hotline 0800 701 701.

For more information on jobs at the Department of Correctional Services

Visit the Department of Correctional Services website for information on jobs available at the department.

When applying for a job on the DCS website, please note:

Applications must be submitted on the Application for Employment Form (Z.83), obtainable from any Public Service department or at www.gov.za and should be accompanied by a comprehensive CV, including the details of at least two contactable referees (should be people who recently worked with the applicant) and certified copies of qualifications and identity document (with an original certification stamp). It is the responsibility of applicants in possession of foreign qualifications to submit evaluated results by the South African Qualifications Authority. Where a valid driver’s licence is a requirement, applicants must attach certified copies of such licences. No faxes or e-mailed applications will be considered. If no contact is made within three months of the closing date, please accept that the application was unsuccessful. Successful candidates will be required to enter into a performance agreement and be subjected to security clearance procedures. Successful candidates may be required to undergo a competency assessment.

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