How AI images and data theft are undermining genuine job applications

Seemingly professional headshots, AI-generated CVs and fake video interviews – what sounded like science fiction just a few years ago is now a reality. According to a recent Gartner report, by 2028, one in four job applications could be fraudulent. Remote roles are particularly affected, as it becomes increasingly difficult for companies to distinguish genuine talent from manipulated profiles. But it's not only employers who suffer – honest candidates are also impacted by identity theft, dubious job offers or more complex application processes. 

Özlem Simsek, Managing Director at recruitment agency Robert Walters, observes this trend daily and urges candidates to stay alert: “The line between modern and misleading is easily crossed – especially when it comes to AI-generated application photos.”

Why AI-generated photos can harm your application

With tools like Midjourney or DALL·E, seemingly polished application photos can be created in seconds – all in pursuit of a flawless first impression. But this approach can backfire. “We’ve seen several cases where it was obvious that the photo was AI-generated,” says Özlem. “It comes across as inauthentic and raises red flags.”

The consequence? Employers start questioning the entire application – even if the CV and cover letter are strong. Many recruiters now prioritise authenticity and have become skilled at spotting AI-generated images. “Our experience shows that applications with real photos – even if they’re not perfect – build more trust than flawless but artificial images,” Özlem explains. “A good application photo should provide a realistic and credible representation of the person."

If an AI-generated image doesn’t match reality, it can cause confusion in interviews – and raise doubts about the applicant’s credibility.

When someone else uses your identity to apply

The situation becomes even more serious when third parties use real data to send fake applications. “In some instances, individuals receive interview invitations for roles they never applied to, as a result of their LinkedIn profiles being copied and submitted by someone else,” says Özlem. “Such incidents can damage reputations and even lead to legal consequences. A professional online presence is important – but the more personal information is publicly accessible, the higher the risk of identity misuse.”

Job scams: When an offer sounds too good to be true

It’s not just companies being deceived – candidates are increasingly targeted as well. Fake job ads, often found on dubious platforms or sent via direct messages, promise appealing roles but later request payments – for example, for training or work equipment. “We’re seeing more and more early-career candidates falling for these scams,” Özlem warns. “The initial contact often seems professional – but then there’s a sudden request for money. That should immediately raise suspicion.”

Some scammers even pose as recruitment agencies, appearing legitimate but demanding placement fees from candidates. The golden rule: reputable recruitment consultancies never charge candidates. Anyone asked to pay should view the offer critically and walk away. And importantly, when in doubt, it’s always advisable to contact the real agency directly – this not only provides clarity but can also help prevent others from falling for the same scam.

What candidates can do now

• Use only real application photos – professional, but authentic. The image doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should look realistic and serious. Recruiters want to form an accurate impression and expect consistency between photo and reality. Since most candidates also have a profile picture on LinkedIn or Facebook, recruiters often cross-check – so the image should be recent. A new photo every few years is usually enough, unless there have been significant changes in appearance.

• Protect your application documents with watermarks or other identifiers to prevent misuse.

• Secure your professional profiles (e.g. with two-factor authentication).

• Be cautious with offers promising unusually high salaries or quick job placements – especially from unknown sources.

• Thoroughly research potential employers: check their website, legal notice, reviews and contact persons.

Conclusion

Digitalisation brings new opportunities – but also new risks. Candidates need to defend themselves not only against unfair competition from fake profiles but also take active steps to safeguard their own data and integrity. “We strongly advise against using AI-generated application photos,” says Özlem. “Not because the technology is bad – but because authenticity is becoming increasingly important in the hiring process.” Those who present themselves honestly and professionally gain trust – and that’s ultimately what counts.

More information

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