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The Zimbabwe mining sector is facing a surge in fake job recruitment scams, with fraudsters exploiting the desperation of job seekers by circulating false job adverts and soliciting money upfront. Several mining companies have issued public alerts as the scams continue to proliferate, particularly on social media platforms.
By Ryan Chigoche
The Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) recently warned the public after uncovering a network of conmen claiming to be recruiting for a new diamond mining project in Marange. The perpetrators have reportedly been demanding cash payments from job seekers in exchange for non-existent employment opportunities.
This warning was quickly followed by a similar alert from the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), which stressed that its official job advertisements are only published through its verified social media platforms—LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram—and on its corporate website. The corporation urged the public to treat any communication or adverts outside these channels as fraudulent.
Namib Minerals has also raised concerns after discovering fake job adverts circulating online using the company’s logos and letterheads. In these cases, scammers have been targeting job seekers by requesting so-called “processing fees” or “placement charges” as a precondition for employment, further highlighting the widespread nature of these scams across the mining sector.
These scams have become increasingly sophisticated. Fraudsters have been known to create convincing websites and forged documents to make their schemes appear legitimate. In some instances, victims are even invited to fake interviews at hired venues to enhance the illusion of credibility.
Victims often lose amounts ranging from US$500 to US$1,000—money that is usually borrowed or saved over long periods. Many only realise they have been scammed when the advertised job never materialises, by which time the fraudsters have disappeared.
How Job Seekers Can Stay Safe
Mining companies and law enforcement agencies have repeatedly emphasised the importance of vigilance when applying for jobs. They stress that job seekers must take extra precautions and verify all information before committing to any recruitment process.
Never pay: Genuine mining companies do not ask for any form of payment during recruitment. Application fees, “medical clearance” charges, and processing fees are all common tactics used by scammers. If you are ever asked to pay for a job, it is almost certainly a scam.
Verify job adverts: Always cross-check vacancies with the company’s official website and its verified social media pages. Fraudsters often use the names and logos of well-known companies to gain trust, but official communication will only appear on platforms controlled by the company.
Check communication channels: Legitimate recruiters use company email addresses with proper domains (e.g., @companyname.com) and official phone numbers listed on their websites. Be suspicious of adverts or correspondences sent from personal email addresses such as Gmail or Yahoo, or numbers that are not publicly associated with the company.
Be cautious of pressure tactics: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, claiming that positions are limited or that payment must be made immediately to “secure” a job. This is designed to discourage victims from asking questions or verifying details. Always take the time to verify the opportunity before committing.
Do background research: Before applying, research the company’s recent activities and announcements. Scammers sometimes advertise jobs for companies that do not have any ongoing recruitment drives. A quick check with the company’s HR department can save you from being defrauded.
Do not share personal information unnecessarily: Fraudulent recruiters often request identity documents, bank details, or other personal information, which can be used for identity theft. Only share such information after you have confirmed that the opportunity is genuine.
Report suspicious activities: If you encounter a suspicious job advert or recruiter, immediately notify the company in question and the police. Reporting helps stop scammers and protects others from falling victim.
By following these steps, job seekers can significantly reduce the risk of being exploited. Mining companies have made it clear that verification is key—if a job offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
With scam job adverts on the rise, mining companies are urging job seekers to report any suspicious vacancies or demands for money directly to the company’s Human Resources department or to the police. Swift reporting can help authorities act quickly and may prevent other people from falling victim to the same schemes.
The increase in fraudulent recruitment activities is widely linked to Zimbabwe’s challenging job market, which scammers are taking advantage of to exploit vulnerable individuals. Industry players continue to emphasise the need for job seekers to prioritise verification at every stage of the recruitment process and to exercise caution when opportunities appear questionable. Remaining alert and proactive is seen as the most effective way to stay protected.
With the mining sector continuing to grow and generate interest among job seekers, fraudulent recruiters are expected to intensify their efforts. Job seekers are urged to remain vigilant, double-check every job advert, and remember that no genuine mining company will ever ask for money as part of its recruitment process.
