Searching online is one of the most common and convenient ways to find a job. However, millions of Americans fall for online job scams every year, leading the Federal Trade Commission to crack down on con artists who target the unemployed. These scams take many forms---purported job placements with the federal government, mystery-shopping jobs that require money upfront and don't screen applicants, and envelope-stuffing jobs. Internet-based jobs are also growing, enticing people with the benefits of working from their computer and making easy bucks. Several key factors will help you determine whether the offer is real or a fraud.
Step 1
Keep firmly in mind that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is, recommends WorkatHomeSuccess.com, the brainchild of "Pajama Mama" Leslie Truex.
Step 2
Watch out for requests to mail or wire money in order to get the job. Remember, you're applying for a job rather than looking to invest in a business.
Step 3
Be wary if there is no street address, phone number or company email address, and is instead only an address such as .yahoo or .hotmail.
Step 4
Notice if the company requests your Social Security number, bank account or photo identification. Some job advertisements are really identity-theft frauds, so be extra vigilant about identifying companies and not divulging your personal information.
Step 5
Look for whether the job uses any of the fraud tipoff words that Monster.com has identified, such as "money transfer," "package-forwarding" or "wiring funds."
Step 6
Check to see whether the advertisement has outlined in detail the specific requirements of the job. If the "job" seems vague, move on.
Tips and Warnings
- For extra security, check to see if any company you apply to is registered with a Better Business Bureau or other business association. You will also be able to find out if that company has any unresolved complaints registered at the BBB.
- You can be arrested and charged for felonies for participating in some online job scams---even if you didn't know you were. According to Dave Savini of CBS, a "re-shipper job" is one example of potential criminal activity; it requires that you simply accept packages at your home and forward them to another address. In some cases, the products you re-ship are stolen goods; in other cases, you may become the victim of identity theft and never receive any payment.
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