Although there are some amazing jobs waiting for you on the internet, there are also many scams. As you search for your next job, you need to be wary of jobs that seem too good to be true. In most cases, they are scams and could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Learn more about common job scams and how to avoid them.
Three of the Most Common Scams
While there are hundreds of types of job scams, there are only three that are relatively common. As you look for a new job, be on the lookout for these three scams:
Repackaging Scams
If someone wants to pay you to receive a package, repackage it, and ship it, you could be doing something illegal. The person may be having you sell stolen or illegal items. Even though you might not be aware of what’s in the packages, you could be arrested for being part of the illegal activity.
There are no legitimate repackaging jobs out there. If you see one on the internet, resist the temptation to apply for it. These jobs usually are advertised as work-from-home gift-wrapping jobs. Around the holidays, this scam is particularly popular.
Money Laundering
Many people are familiar with the term “money-laundering”, but few people actually know what it is. The process involves changing the trail of money and making it come from a legitimate source. By participating in money laundering, you’re committing a criminal offense.
Typically, this scam is easy to spot. The employer might ask you for your banking details and have your receive money and send it to someone else. Although you actually receive the money, the real scam is in you committing a crime and “cleaning” the money for them.
Even if the job isn’t money-laundering, there’s a chance you could lose money. The person might send you a large check and ask you to return the excess money. After you return the money, the check will bounce and leave you with an empty bank account. It’s best to avoid any jobs that involve transferring money from your bank to another place.
Call Center
First, you should know that not all call center jobs are scams. In fact, there are plenty of great opportunities available at call centers. Legitimate call center jobs can be profitable, but it's the illegitimate ones you need to look out for.
When you interview for a job at a call center, check out the script. Does the product seem too good to be true? If anything about the scam seems unrealistic or strange, you could be dealing with a scam. You won't be the one being scammed, but would be the one scamming others.
Typically, call center job scams target seniors and offer get-rich quick opportunities. Or, they might prey on those who are in danger of being sued. They can also involve getting credit card numbers and using them for a nefarious purpose. Before you accept a position at a call center, look up information about the company. Check into their BBB rating and online reviews.
What are the Red Flags of Scam Jobs?
It's not always easy to spot job scams, but there are a few signs you should lookout for. If you notice any of the following red flags, consider passing on the job and going elsewhere.
You're Asked for Your Bank Account Details
Eventually, an employer might ask you for your bank account details so they can pay you. But this shouldn't be the first thing they ask for. If you have an employer ask for this information before you even meet with them, the job is probably a scam.
No Online Presence
These days, every reputable company has an online presence. Whether a company is a start-up or has been around for years, it should have a website or online reviews. You should always look up information about a company before you commit to working for them.
No Interview
No matter how quickly an employer wants to hire someone, they want to interview the candidates before hiring someone. If you get offered a job before you do an interview, you could be in the midst of a scam.
False Promises
If a potential employer promises you the world, turn away and find a new job. False promises are a sign of a scam or, at the very least, a bad employer. If they make promises of incredibly high commissions or unbelievable raises, you have every right to worry.
Failure to Pay in a Timely Manner
This tip is for freelancers who decide to work for a client. If you're not going through a job platform, you have no way of knowing the employer will actually pay you for your services. Don't work for too long before receiving pay. As a show of good faith, the employer should be willing to pay you early on in the process.
With a regular part or full-time job, you should expect to wait one or two weeks for your first paycheck. You can talk to your employer if you have concerns, or speak to other employees and make sure they receive their pay.
What to Do About Scams
Unfortunately, there's not much you can do if you become a victim of a scam. You can report a scam to the authorities, but it's unlikely that they will take action. If your scam job resulted in you losing money, you may just need to take the loss.
It's best to try to spot scams before you become involved in them. When you do notice a scam, go to the Federal Trade Commission and report the job. You might be able to prevent someone else from losing their money.
As you apply for jobs, be cautious but hopeful. You will probably come across a few scams, but you'll also find a few amazing opportunities. If you are aware of the common scams and know where to look for jobs, you can find new work quickly.