Online Employment Financial Scam

How it Works

Scammers will post fake jobs on trustworthy platforms such as Indeed. When you apply for the job, you will be contacted by scammers who will pose as a representative from real companies. They often use the names of real recruiters and HR personnel from that company they are falsely representing. The imposters will start a dialogue with you as if you are going through the hiring process with a real company, but their motive is to get your personal financial information and eventually scam you for their financial gain. Below are some common signs that may help you to recognize and avoid being scammed.

        Red Flags:

• Company requests confidential information early in the job interview process. You are asked for personal financial information such as social security number, bank accounts, home address, phone number, date of birth, etc. That information only becomes necessary once you sign an employers offer and start a new Job.
• Inflated salary offers for 15 to 20 hours a week or a schedule that is too flexible/working remotely.
• Receiving a job offer right away.
•  Company sends you a large check to deposit. They will ask you to send or pay money to a third party. Their insufficient check will bounce, your bank holds you responsible for the funds sent.  No legitimate employer will send you a check.
• The email address is personal or mimics a real company’s email address.

What to Do

If you determine that it is a scam, do not give out your personal information. Discontinue communication with the scammer.  In the case that you realize it is scam after giving out bank account and routing numbers, contact your bank immediately and alert them. Report Scam to law enforcement.