The Internet has been a boon to those looking for jobs. However, it’s also provided a ripe opportunity for ID thieves and scammers to take advantage of eager – and unsuspecting – job seekers.
The BBB advises job hunters to watch for these red flags:
Emails are rife with grammatical and spelling errors. Most online fraud is perpetrated by scammers located outside the U.S who are don’t have a clear understanding of the English language. If the job description is filled with misspellings, keep looking.
Emails claim there’s a problem with a job-hunter’s account. After creating a user account on sites such as Monster.com, Careerbuilder.com or Craigslist.com, a job hunter might receive an email saying there is a problem with the account or that they need to follow a hyperlink to install new software. Click the link and malware or viruses will be installed on your computer.
An employer asks for Social Security or bank account numbers. Some job seekers are surprised when offered a job without a single interview, and even more surprised when asked for personal information. Never give out your Social Security or bank account numbers over the phone or email.
You're promised an extravagant income without leaving home. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering work-at-home offers such as stuffing envelopes or assembling kits. Always research the company with the BBB first at www.bbb.org.
An employer asks for money upfront. Aside from paying for a uniform, it is rarely advisable for an applicant to pay upfront fees or make a required purchase to get a job. Salary and benefits seem too good to be true. Phony employers often brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little experience in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters.
The job requires wiring money. Many phony jobs require employees to cash checks sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. Although the check might clear the employee’s bank account, it will eventually turn out to be a fake and the employee is out the money he or she wired to the scammers.
Start With Trust. For reliable consumer tips and information, visit
wynco.bbb.org or call 970-484-1348 or 800-564-0371.
