We provide recruitment software. This kind of recruitment is commonplace, especially in large "always hiring" companies. Its sometimes known as talent pipeline

We provide recruitment software. This kind of recruitment is commonplace, especially in large "always hiring" companies. Its sometimes known as talent pipelines. However in all of the companies I am aware of, it will be made very clear to the candidate that they are applying to a pipeline, not to an actual open position. Doing otherwise would piss off candidates, harm the employer's brand, and likely be counter productive. Its also common to ask candidates to "register" in order to be informed of future openings. Again though, its made clear that you are not applying for an actual position. However agencies, particularly smaller ones (as opposed to actual employers), are well known for posting "bait and switch" openings which are not real jobs at all but simply to try and troll for talent.