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SAFETY · 5 MIN READ

Job Scams: 10 Warning Signs and What to Do

By the Empload team · Updated

Scammers pose as employers to steal money and identities. Knowing the patterns protects you.

Ten warning signs

  • You are asked to pay for training, equipment, or background checks
  • You are sent a check and told to send some of it back
  • The "interview" happens entirely by chat
  • You are hired immediately without meeting anyone
  • The pay is far above the market for the work described
  • The recruiter uses a personal or look-alike email domain
  • The listing has many spelling and grammar errors
  • You are pressured to act fast or keep the offer secret
  • They ask for your Social Security number or bank details before an offer is signed
  • You cannot find the company or recruiter anywhere else online

How to verify an employer

Find the company official website yourself and apply through its careers page. Check that the recruiter email matches the company domain, and search the company name with the word "scam".

If you were targeted

Stop contact, do not send money, and contact your bank if you shared financial information. Report the posting to the job site and to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Will a real employer ask me to pay to get hired?

No. Legitimate employers do not charge applicants for jobs, equipment, or training.

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