In today’s job market – remote and freelance roles are more common than ever, but so are the scams that may come with them. From fake “work-from-home” gigs, to bogus job placement services – scammers are constantly evolving their tricks to exploit hopeful job seekers.

Red Flags of a Job Scam

There are some red flags to spot before you get reeled in, and ways to protect yourself and your finances while you hunt for your next opportunity.

• You’re asked to pay upfront. Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay for training, supplies, or job placement. Scammers may call it a “processing fee,” but it’s a sure sign of fraud.
• The offer comes out of nowhere. If you didn’t apply for a job, and suddenly get an “offer” via text, email, or social media – be skeptical, especially if it seems too good to be true.
• They want your personal info immediately. Requests for your Social Security Number, bank account details for direct deposit, or ID early in the process are major red flags.
• The job description is vague or inconsistent. Watch for generic descriptions or ones that are copied from other listings. Scammers often can’t describe the role or company clearly.
• You’re offered big pay for little work. If it sounds like easy money, it’s probably a scam.

Common Job Scams

Here are some trending job scams targeting job seekers, especially those looking for remote or flexible roles:

1. Work-From-Home Scams

You’re told you can “set your own hours” doing simple tasks from your computer. But after you accept, you’re asked to pay for software or a training kit. The scammer then takes your money and disappears.

2. Virtual Personal Assistant Gigs

These often start with a text or email claiming the sender found your resume or profile online. You’re “hired” quickly and sent a check to buy office supplies – but it’s fake, and you’ll be on the hook with your financial institution for any money you spend.

3. Mystery Shopper Scams

You’re paid to “test” a service or retail store. The scammer sends you a check to deposit, asks you to buy gift cards, and then send them the gift card codes. When the check bounces, you’ll be left covering the cost.

4. Job Placement Services

Phony recruiters or companies will promise to place you in a job for a fee. Once you pay, the contact goes cold or gives you access to a database of outdated listings.

Protect Yourself While You Job Hunt

• Research the company. Google the company name with the words “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” Check if they have a legitimate website, social media presence, and professional email addresses. Recruiters or legitimate Human Resources departments will email you from a corporate email account, not from a personal email address such as gmail.com or yahoo.com.
• Never pay to get hired. If you’re being asked to send money for any job, stop and walk away immediately.
• Guard your personal info. Share sensitive details only after confirming the job and company are real, going through a formal interview process with Human Resources, and accepting the position. Real employers won’t ask for this information before they’ve interviewed and hired you.
• Use trusted job sites. Stick to reputable job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or company website career pages. Be wary of job ads on social media or unfamiliar websites.

Job hunting can be stressful enough, so don’t let a scam make it worse. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and remember – if it feels off, it probably is. For more tips on avoiding fraud and keeping your finances safe, subscribe to our First Scoop Blog or contact us today.