WARNING: IS IT A SCAM?

Because con-artists and scammers are not conered with behaving ethically or legally, here are some points to be aware that might help avoid you being scammed. 

 

  • Requires an initial investment - Do not supply a potential employer with your credit card or banking account information.
  • Out of town/out of the country - An employer that sends you a check to deposit money in your account to buy supplies or make payments.  They commonly use the excuse that they are working abroad or out of town and need someone to manage things locally.
  • Too good to be true - Work your own hours, be a secret shopper, work for an A-list celebrity, or you can make $600.00 up to $10,000 for one week of work.  These jobs often look like easy and convenient ways to make money with very little effort.  The old adage is accurate: If it looks too good to be true, then it probably isn't true!
  • Poorly written job postings - Typically, there will not be typos or poor grammar in a legitimate job posting.  Be very suspicious if you see either in a job posting.
  • High wages for no experience (or no work on your part) - Earn $100,000 in your first job out of college.  Again the idea is that scammers want to make you believe you were highly sought after to complete jobs anyone could do.  The truth is you will not make a lot of money without talent, experience, and specialized skills.
  • Work from home - There are legitimate 'work at home' jobs, but they are often difficult to find.  Do significant research and ask tough questions. 
  • Send a photo - Please don't! 
  • Bad website and/or no phone number - You search for a company you have never heard of before.  The first link is to Facebook or free website creator site.  It might look good, but the content does not appear correct.  You click on the 'contact us' and see no phone number.  These are all red flags of potential scams. 
  • Recruiter has a @gmail/@hotmail/@live account - The posting appears to be from a reputable, family company, yet the email is from a free web-based service, use caution.  We suggest you check the open positions on the company's website to validate the position. 
  • Interview at a restaurant - Legitimate organizations have offices. Be wary.