This happened to me when it was time to move on from my first real job.
A recruiter, who I spoke to briefly and had no interest in moving forward with, contacted my current manager and said he'd help fill my role after I left. My manager had no idea I was looking to leave at that point.
After confirming with me that I was indeed planning to leave, the manager wished me well, then ensured neither the recruiter nor their company would ever work with one of the largest engineering companies in Europe.
That felt righteous and worked out for the best, but could really have left me in the lurch.
File a complaint with whatever firm they work for. Reassure your employer you're just keeping an ear to the ground.
Lawyer up if you can afford it?
This is certainly scummy but how is it illegal?
I'm pretty sure it's illegal in the EU unless you provide explicit consent.
You don't have to break a law to be ruled against in civil court (in the US), but I agree with you; I don't see a case here (even checked with a lawyer who happens to be visiting.)
> You don't have to break a law to be ruled against in civil court (in the US)
Yes, you do; civil courts enforce civil law, which is actually law.
If you ask and confirm that they won't contact your current employer, then might it not fall under contract law?
... Yes that makes sense. No idea why I was thinking law == criminal law.
If that call led to you being fired you would have a good case to sue for damages from lost income.
Maybe - it’s stretching - tortuous interference?
Anyone can certainly sue anyone at anytime (at least in the US), but I don't think there's any basis for a civil claim here. Not sure you'd find a lawyer to take your case.