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Phish Files Articles
February 27, 2026

“Career Opening” / Part-Time Administrative Assistant Job Email

Posted in: Phishing

The image displays a phishing warning labeled over a fake job opening email for a part-time administrative assistant position at Montclair State University.

Screenshot of a Microsoft form posing at Montclair for a fake job offer.

Why This Email May Look Legitimate

Scammers often design job scams to appeal to students and job seekers. This message uses several tactics:

  • University Branding
    The email references Montclair State University and presents itself as an official campus opportunity.

  • Formal Job Posting Format
    The layout mimics a legitimate job description, with position details, qualifications, and application instructions.

  • Attractive Pay for Minimal Hours
    The offer promises $600 per week for just 5–7 hours of remote work — highly appealing and seemingly flexible.

  • Quick Review Timeline
    Stating that applications will be reviewed within “2–24 hours” creates urgency and excitement.

Signs This Email Is Phishing

There are multiple red flags:

  • External Sender Accounts
    The emails come from random external accounts, not official university email addresses, even though the display name may say “Student Center.”

  • Non-Existent Department
    “Job Placement & Student Services” is not a recognized university department.

  • Generic Gmail Contact Address
    Applicants are instructed to email a resume to a personal Gmail account (not an official university domain).

  • Unrealistic Compensation
    $600 per week for 5–7 hours of administrative work is a classic job scam tactic.

  • Minimal Qualifications Required
    Only a high school diploma and internet connection are listed — another common scam pattern.

  • “Click Here” Application Link
    Vague links without a verified university website are a major warning sign.

What Are the Risks?

Responding to this message could lead to:

  • Identity theft (sharing your resume and personal details)

  • Financial scams (including fake check scams)

  • Requests for banking information

  • Being targeted for future employment scams

Job scams often escalate quickly after initial contact.

What Should You Do?

If you receive this email:

  1. Do not click any links.

  2. Do not send your resume or personal information.

  3. Report the message using the Phish Alert Button (PAB).

  4. Delete the email after reporting.

Remember

  1. Legitimate university job postings are posted on Handshake.
  2. If an offer sounds too good to be true — especially with high pay for minimal work — it probably is.
  3. Montclair State University will never ask for your password or Duo codes.