A job posting for a role the employer isn't actually hiring for — not always a scam, but a close cousin that wastes and exposes applicants.
A ghost job is a listing left up (or posted) for a position that isn't genuinely open — to build a résumé pipeline, gauge the talent market, or simply neglected after a hiring freeze. It differs from an outright scam because there's usually a real company behind it, but the effect on you is similar: wasted effort and personal data handed over for nothing.
The danger for job seekers is that ghost listings blur the line, training you to accept applications that go nowhere — which makes it easier for a genuine scam listing to slip through.
Red flags
- Listing has been reposted for months with no movement
- No named hiring contact and vague responsibilities
- Company can't confirm the role is currently open
Deep-dive guide
Is This Job Legit? A Green-Flag Checklist for Verifying Real Offers
Frequently asked questions
Is a ghost job the same as a scam?
Not exactly. A ghost job is usually a real company advertising a role it isn't truly filling, while a scam listing exists to steal money or data. Both waste your time — and both are worth verifying before you invest effort or share information.
How do I avoid ghost jobs?
Check how long the posting has been live, look for a named recruiter or hiring manager, and confirm the role on the company's own careers page. If nobody can confirm it's actively being filled, treat it with caution.