Nearly 80 per cent of workers say they have been “catfished” into jobs that failed to match what recruiters promised, according to new survey data that highlights widespread deception in hiring practices.
Monster’s 2025 Career Catfishing poll found that 79 per cent of more than 1,400 U.S. workers reported accepting positions based on misleading information from employers. The survey, conducted in March, reveals the extent to which both job seekers and employers engage in deceptive practices during recruitment.
Job responsibilities top list of employer misrepresentations
Work responsibilities were the most commonly misrepresented element, affecting 49 per cent of workers who reported being catfished, according to Monster. Company culture was misrepresented to 21 per cent of respondents, while nine per cent said compensation or benefits were overstated.
The practice, which Monster defines as presenting a deceptive persona during hiring, creates problems for both sides of the employment relationship. Workers who accept misleading job offers often experience dissatisfaction, burnout or leave positions early, according to the survey.
Workers also misrepresent qualifications
The deception flows both ways, with 13 per cent of workers admitting to career catfishing themselves. Job seekers most commonly exaggerated job responsibilities, with eight per cent reporting this behaviour, according to Monster.
Seven per cent of respondents said they had overstated their skills, technical abilities or work experience, while three per cent admitted to misrepresenting their education or certifications.
Two-thirds of workers believe they currently work alongside someone who misrepresented their qualifications during the hiring process, the survey found.
Strong moral opposition despite widespread practice
Despite the prevalence of career catfishing, 85 per cent of workers consider the practice morally wrong, according to Monster. Nearly one-third of respondents said offenders should be fired immediately if caught.
The findings align with broader employment trends showing high turnover rates. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an average monthly quit rate of 2.1 per cent in 2024, often linked to unmet job expectations.
The Society for Human Resource Management has found that first-year turnover frequently results from gaps between job expectations and reality, underscoring the importance of accurate job descriptions in recruitment.
Recommendations for reducing deceptive practices
Monster recommends job seekers ask detailed questions during interviews about responsibilities, team dynamics and growth opportunities. The company also suggests researching company culture through review platforms and requesting written confirmation of compensation before accepting offers.
For employers, Monster advises using skills-based assessments to verify technical abilities and conducting thorough background checks to confirm employment history and education. Clear, transparent job postings can reduce turnover and build trust with candidates, according to the company.
The survey reflects perspectives from employed and job-seeking individuals across industries and experience levels in the United States.
