Job Scams 101

What is a job scam?

A job scam, also called an employment scam, is when a scammer advertises false job openings in order to get someone’s personal information and/or to get someone’s money.

What are some common signs of a job scam?

• The job is too good to be true.
• You are hired on the spot without a real interview.
• You have to pay to apply.
• You are sent a check and are then asked by the “employer” to send money back due to an overpayment.
• The “employer” asks to do an interview using unfamiliar software.

What are some different types of job scams?

• Work-from-home jobs offers: Scammers will offer fake work-from-home jobs that will require little hours, but have high pay. Many times, you will have to pay for training or you will receive fake checks for equipment or payroll.
• Government job offers: Scammers will have offers for a government job, but they require you to pay a fee to apply. Government jobs will NEVER make you pay to apply for a job.
• Fake job listings: Scammers will post fake job listings and ask for sensitive personal information. Some will ask for a fee to complete an application.
• Job placements: A scammer will promise that they can get you a job or they will give you information about job listings for a fee that you could find for free online.

How do I avoid job scams?

• Do your research. Look up the company to see if it is a legitimate company. Also, see if you can find any reviews or complaints about the company scamming others.
• Trust your gut. If the employer is being pushy and trying to pressure you into accepting the offer quick, it’s likely a scam. If you feel like something is off, talk to a friend or family member about the job offer.
• Never pay in advance. Don’t pay to apply for a job and don’t pay for equipment or anything out of pocket. If a company sends you a check and asks you to send them money back, do not deposit that check. It is a scam.