FG Warns Civil Service Applicants About Viral Scam

The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has sounded the alarm over a series of fake messages circulating on social media and messaging platforms, misleading applicants about the ongoing civil service recruitment process.

In a statement released this week, the Commission urged all job seekers to ignore fraudulent messages claiming that shortlisting has not started or that payment is required to proceed to the next stage. 

According to FCSC officials, shortlisting is already underway, and only candidates who meet the necessary qualifications have been contacted via email for the next stage, which includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT).

No payment required, recruitment is free

The Commission reiterated that the entire recruitment process is absolutely free. Any message requesting payment for “clearance fees,” “posting,” or “appointment offers” is a scam, the FCSC warned. 

One of the fake messages falsely claimed that applicants must pay a N1,250 fee to a so-called “Federal Government Human Resource Consultant” to secure their spot at the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).

Another viral message misleadingly stated that shortlisting had not yet begun and that applications were still being accepted. 

The Commission has debunked both claims, urging the public to be wary of anyone posing as an official or asking for money in exchange for job placement.

What the FCSC is saying

Speaking to the press, Mr. Taiwo Hassan, Head of Press and Public Relations at the FCSC, confirmed that the recruitment process is active and ongoing.

“Candidates have been shortlisted. Those shortlisted have received emails with information about their preferred test locations and other necessary details,” he said.

Hassan stressed that only applicants who submitted complete and eligible applications have been selected for the CBT. He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious messages or individuals demanding money.

“We are not asking any applicant to pay any fee,” he emphasized.

What every applicant should do

Applicants have been strongly advised to rely only on information provided through official government websites, verified email addresses, or direct communication from the FCSC. Any message outside these channels should be treated with caution.

This is not the first time scammers have attempted to take advantage of desperate job seekers. The Commission is now doubling down on public awareness to protect applicants from falling victim to such deceit.