Job Employment Scams

Job & Employment Scams

Job scams are fraudulent employment offers designed to steal your money, personal information, or identity. Criminals often pretend to represent legitimate companies and advertise attractive positions with high salaries, remote work, or easy hiring.

Their goal isn't to employ you—it's to convince you to send payments, share sensitive information, or install malicious software.

How Job Scams Work

The Catch

They request payment for training, equipment, certifications, or background checks—or ask for banking information before employment.

The Scam

Once the victim pays or shares sensitive information, the scammer disappears or continues asking for more money.

Protect Yourself

Browse the manual below to learn tips on how to stay safe.

Warning Signs / Red Flags

Offers a high-paying job with little experience required
Hires you immediately without a proper interview
Requests payment for training, equipment, or application fees
Asks for personal information before you are officially hired
Uses unofficial email addresses or suspicious contact methods
Pressures you to accept the offer quickly
Communicates only through text or messaging apps
Sends fake checks and asks you to send money back
Requires you to purchase equipment from a specific vendor
The job description contains vague details or unrealistic promises

How to Stay Safe

Research the company using official websites and trusted sources
Verify recruiter emails and contact information
Never pay money to apply for or receive a job
Avoid sharing sensitive personal information too early
Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true
Request a proper interview before accepting a position
Do not deposit checks or send money on an employer's request
Confirm job offers directly with the company
Take your time and avoid rushed decisions
Report suspicious job postings or recruiters

What To Do If You've Been Scammed

Stop communicating with the scammer immediately
Contact your bank or payment provider if money was sent
Change passwords if any account information was shared
Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity
Report the scam to the platform where you found the job
Document messages, emails, and payment details as evidence
Notify relevant authorities or consumer protection agencies
Warn others about the scam to help prevent further victims

Quick Checklist

Did I apply for this job or did they contact me first?
Was there a real interview process?
Does the recruiter use a legitimate company email?
Did I research the company independently?
Am I being asked to pay any fees?
Does the salary match the job requirements?
Am I being pressured to decide quickly?
Am I being asked to share sensitive personal information?

Don’t wait until it happens to you.

Start Checking Messages