Public Service Ministry Warns of Job Scams Targeting Ugandans

The Ministry of Public Service has issued a stern warning to the public about a surge in fraudulent job offers circulating online and through mobile phone calls.

According to a statement from Catherine Bitarakwate Musingwiire, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, unsuspecting job seekers are being targeted by scammers impersonating Ministry officials in an attempt to steal personal information and money.

The Ministry has identified several red flags that indicate a job offer is likely a scam. According to the the permanent secretary, scammers often reach out to individuals claiming they have been shortlisted for a position, even if the person never applied.

"They may use fabricated titles and names, such as 'Human Resource Officer - Mr. Paul Mugabe,' and contact victims through mobile phone numbers like +256706618746. Another common tactic is to instruct victims to send mobile money payments to cover supposed processing fees or other costs associated with the job," she said.

The Ministry confirmed that several individuals have already fallen victim to these scams, losing their hard-earned money to fraudsters. For protection, the Ministry has urged the public to never send money for a job placement.

"Legitimate government positions do not require payment at any stage of the recruitment process. If you encounter a suspicious job offer, report it immediately to the Police and the Ministry of Public Service," the permanent secretary said in a statement. "Always verify job postings through official channels. Only trust job vacancies advertised through official platforms of the respective Service Commissions at the central and district levels, Ministry, Department, Agency, or Local Government channels."

The Ministry has urged the public, especially those seeking employment at the Local Government level, to be vigilant and share this warning widely to prevent others from becoming victims of these scams.