Recently, several fraudsters have targeted Hong Kong university students and job seekers who have relocated to mainland China, setting up fake job advertisements on social media platforms, especially the Chinese social networking site Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book). A reporter from the Apple Daily uncovered these deceptive job postings, which falsely claimed positions with universities such as the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the University of Hong Kong, Lingnan University, City University of Hong Kong, and others. These deceptive advertisements were reportedly offering jobs with conditions like "stability in pacing" and "maintaining an international work environment," aiming to attract candidates. The "job agents" initially approach candidates with job-related advice but subsequently suggest that securing a job requires paying a 300,000 RMB (approximately 50,000 USD) referral fee. This scheme exploits the difficulty Hong Kong graduates face in finding employment in mainland areas. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has posted a statement on its official social media platform, noting that the fake advertisements have spread and have caused significant damage to the university's reputation. Policemen remind the public to be cautious when job hunting online or through social media, and to verify job postings directly with the institutions in question. Authorities advise against paying for job placements through intermediaries, as they are likely fraudulent. Meanwhile, the Dong Hua College has issued a statement through its official Instagram page, clarifying that it has never offered or accredited any MBA programs, and it has taken steps to debunk the fraudulent listings.
Star Headline
Published: 2026-11-09 07:00:56
Scam: Fake University Recruitment in Mainland China Advertising Job Posts on Social Media
Fake job advertisements of universities in Hong Kong have proliferated on Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, targeting mainland-educated students who have returned to Hong Kong ('ganchang'). Scammers are claiming to provide job advice and promising 'internal referrals' for 300,000 RMB as a fee, misleading many job seekers who are looking for work.
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