A software engineer in Delhi recently shared a frightening experience on Reddit that exposed a dangerous job scam targeting fresh graduates. Eager for a career opportunity, he was contacted by a consultancy claiming to facilitate interviews with reputable companies. However, upon arriving at the stipulated location in Kirti Nagar, he was met with an unsettling scene: the building appeared unprofessional, and he noticed "African bodyguards" stationed outside, raising immediate red flags. He described how, upon entering, he was greeted by a woman who claimed to have connections with major firms and displayed fake credentials, showing photos of candidates placed in high-profile jobs such as Microsoft.

The interview commenced with technical questions about Java. Sensing irregularities, the engineer intentionally provided incorrect answers, only to be told, "You did great," by the interviewer. This revelation confirmed his suspicions about her lack of actual expertise. The situation took a turn for the worse when the self-proclaimed HR rep demanded a fee of Rs 3,000 for her services. With a bouncer stationed near the exit and several men lurking outside, the engineer felt trapped.

Quickly devising an escape plan, he handed over a Rs 500 note and claimed he needed to withdraw the rest. As soon as he was out of the building, he fled and took a metro to ensure he wasn't followed. After managing to escape, the engineer expressed his frustration about the incident, noting how he'd traveled a long distance for what was supposed to be a legitimate opportunity, only to find himself in such a distressing situation.

This experience, shared in a Reddit post, mirrors a broader issue of scams that plague the job market for young professionals. Many users commented on similar scams they've endured, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and caution among job seekers. One Reddit user acknowledged, "These scams are common in Delhi," while another recounted their friend's disturbing experience with an unregistered startup back in 2017.

As noted in a related piece from Indiatimes, the emotional toll is significant; the engineer expressed his concern for fellow job seekers who may fall prey to such schemes, stating: "It’s sad that these scammers are out there preying on innocent people."

As job scams continue to rise, it serves as a stern reminder for job seekers to remain vigilant and conduct thorough research before attending interviews.