KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a stance against fraudulent overseas employment schemes on social media, Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr, has urged the public to be on alerts for these scams.

The ministry said it is deeply concerned about the proliferation of deceptive advertisements promising lucrative overseas job opportunities. It is critical for citizens to exercise utmost caution and vigilance when encountering such offers on social media platforms, it added, as it unequivocally, disassociates itself from these deceptive advertisements.

“One such fraudulent advertisement invites unsuspecting applicants to send their information to the email address jpwinstonmasters.h2b@gmail.com. The ministry wants to make it abundantly clear that this entity is operating illegally, preying on the hopes and aspirations of job seekers.

Additionally, the unauthorised use of the ministry’s logo in these advertisements is an act of fraudulence. The ministry categorically states that it is not engaged in any recruitment for the overseas employment programmes at this time,” the minister said in a statement on Friday.

At the same time, the ministry is urging the public to visit our official website at www.mlss.gov.jm for a list of licensed employment agencies authorised to facilitate overseas job placements. For further information or to report suspicious advertisements, the ministry’s Employment Agencies Unit can be reached at 876-922-9500.

The ministry is also advising individuals who suspect they have fallen victim to scams, to promptly contact the unit or report the matter to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Fraud Squad.

The ministry underscored that any entity intending to engage in the recruitment of workers in Jamaica, whether for local or overseas placements, must be licensed in compliance with the Employment Agencies Act. It is imperative for anyone operating without a valid licence to immediately cease their operations and take steps to regularise their activities.

The ministry maintains a zero-tolerance approach to employment scamming and will take decisive action against violators. Anyone found operating in breach of these regulations may be subject to a fine of $1,000,000.00 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months upon conviction.

“The Ministry of Labour and Social Security remains committed to safeguarding the interests of Jamaican job seekers and ensuring the integrity of overseas employment opportunities. We urge the public to remain vigilant, exercise due diligence, and report any suspicious activities promptly,” the ministry said.