The Labour Department has warned school leavers and summer job-seekers to beware of employment traps and to be realistic and cautious when looking for jobs.

The department, together with the Police and the Consumer Council, held a joint press briefing today to offer tips for young job-seekers.

They should be alert to dubious recruitment advertisements, especially for highly paid positions requiring few skills or academic qualifications, Senior Labour Officer Danny Lau said.

"They must think carefully before accepting any demands from an employer to pay fees, such as registration fees and administration fees, or cash payment for training, investment or purchase of goods," he stressed.

"They should immediately consult their parents, teachers or appropriate authorities such as the Police and the Consumer Council if they have any doubts or problems," he said.

The department stressed that summer job workers are also protected by the Employment Ordinance. It covers wage payments, restrictions on wage deductions and granting of statutory holidays.

Wages must be paid within seven days

If an employee is not paid wages within seven days of the expiry of a wage period or termination of employment contract, he should approach a branch office of the Labour Relations Division for assistance.

At the press briefing, representatives from the Police and the Consumer Council gave details of certain common job traps, such as "Shell Company Fraud", "Pyramid Selling Related Fraud", "Modelling Fraud" and "Loco-London Gold Fraud", to alert job-seekers not to fall for employment scams.

Job-seekers are also advised to pay particular attention to occupational safety and health to avoid work injuries.

The Labour Department has published booklets on employment traps, labour legislation and occupational safety.