Beware of Job Scammers

While scouring online job ads, you read one description that just seems too good to be true. As you do more research and inquire about the position, the details start to sound suspicious. Job scams are everywhere, and in this technological age, scammers find it easier than ever to prey on innocent victims. Watch out for these six common signs of a job scam, and find out how one would-be victim spotted the red flags.

1. Requests for Money

Never send money or transfer funds to a prospective employer. When Debra Ann McGee pursued an administrative assistant job posting she found on Glassdoor.com, the online interviewer who contacted her promised to send a check for over $5,000 for equipment. He instructed McGee to wire $650 back to pay for shipping costs, a sure sign to McGee of a job scam.

2. Work From Home Opportunities

While many work from home jobs are legit, there are others that victimize unsuspecting job seekers. In McGee's case, she was only expected to be in a chat room for the first day of "work." The promise of work with no face-to-face communication threw up a red flag for McGee.

3. Too Much Pay

A job that pays big bucks and requires few skills doesn't sound like a problem, but this is a common sign of a job scam. McGee was suspicious of the job offer for a position that paid $35 per hour in addition to health, life and disability insurance before the interviewer even reviewed her work experience.

4. Poorly Written Communications

Don't respond to emails or job ads that contain obvious mistakes, such as spelling, punctuation or grammar errors. McGee's interviewer often missed words during their online chat session, which is typically a sign the communication is written by someone who does not speak fluent English.

5. Generic Information

Be wary of job postings that don't provide a lot of detail about the position and prospective employers who don't require a resume. Legitimate job ads usually specify the particular job skills, past education and work experience required for the position. During McGee's interview, she noted the interviewer's vague description of the position and avoidance of her direct questions.

6. Questionable Contact Information

Before answering a job post or responding to an email, research the company to ensure the email address, physical address and phone number match those on the company's website. McGee's final job scam warning sign came when the interviewer listed the wrong city for the supposed company's office.

While you may be anxious to find a job, watch out for job scams that can be a costly mistake. Trust your instincts. Visit your state's Department of Labor and Workforce Development website to search for the employer and confirm it is legitimate.

Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net