Nonexistent agency jobs.

[EuroContractor]

Anyone had the misfortune to come across an agency called MECS Europe and their stupid scams? Sent in a CV for one of their 'jobs' on jobserve. Got called back by some twat who gives no specifics about so called job, only saying 'oh we've got loads of jobs, all over'. Then proceeds with the 'who did you work for last' and 'what's his number' routine, only rather too blatantly. Smelt a rat, confronted the guy who suddenly got abusive and hung up. Caught! Happened to chat with another agency recently who sussed out one of MECS lot had been posing as a candidate.

Anyone had similar experiences, or has anyone actually used this excuse of an agency successfully? They're ATSCO and RECs too for all it's not worth.

[NoziParker]

I would say that at least 80 per cent of the jobs posted on jobs boards are either not spec'd out properly or else they don't exist.

It's a disgrace, frankly - and illegal, of course.

[Not So Wise]

Disgrace defiantly, but how illegal? (interested to know as one or two would love to sink for constantly posting false jobs for "CV harvesting")

[privateeye]

Disgrace defiantly, but how illegal?

Very illegal but hard to prove, definately illegal under the DPA as they are often obtaining personal information for a use that is was not intended. They can only use it for the advertised position, if they wish to use it for any other purpose then they must first ask you. Same law applies as for any form filling or giving details over the internet, must be a checkbox.

Information Commissioner/DTI can't be bothered to do anything about it - but I am.

[JoeTheCarioca]

your detective work

...and just how are you going about this effort?

[privateeye]

Re: your detective work

...and just how are you going about this effort?

Secret at the moment between me, some major clients, the DTI - oh and my solicitor. Just give me a few months to set it up.