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I'm currently looking for a job that will allow me to work remotely. It's been a challenge so far but I'm not giving up.
Here are some tips I have gathered so far to help you avoid scams:
If the amount of pay is too high for the job type, it probably is.
I've seen a lot of scammers advertise data entry and "no experience required" jobs for way too much money per hour. They do this to reel in desperate people who need a job ASAP.
2. They ask you to download Telegram or some other unknown messenger app for the "interview".
If they don't or won't do the interview on Zoom or other professional app, the scammers are doing this to stay anonymous and/or make it really difficult to track them down.
3. They don't need a resume from you.
No legitimate business hires someone without a resume.
4. They won't give you the company's website link, or give you a vague company name.
Scammers get real touchy when you ask for this. Oftentimes you'll get a name that you can Google yourself but when you do, it could be any number of businesses.
5. Even if you ghost them, they'll contact you to see if you still want the job.
If you don't block and report them, they'll be back for more. Some scammers run scripts just like an MLM (multi-level-marketing scheme).
Some extra tips I have is don't give out/take pictures of your drivers license, Social Security card, graduation degree or other personal documents.
Please add your tips below if you have any!
This is great!!! If you’re applying for freelance positions, I’d also recommend avoiding pre-hiring “tests” that look equivalent to full-time projects. It’s a way companies can essentially extract free labor out of you.
Some will do a good job of spoofing a real business website. So check their email address headers carefully to be sure that their email actually comes from the company. Always go to the company website to see if they are hiring for the position. Look for the name of the person you are communicating with. Even contact the company to ask if this person represents them in any way. I have found out several scams by doing this.
When you see a job posting you are interested in, check it out on the corporate website. Don't use the links provided by whoever contacted you.
Keep your contact information and identifying details private on job search sites. It makes it more difficult for scammers to contact you. Be proactive in your job search and reach out to legitimate businesses and recruiters with your resume and information to ensure your information is circulating in valid circles and help ensure the people contacting you are legit.
No legit employer will ask you for financial or personal information beyond a resume and references. They have an HR department that will get that from you via secure methods.
It helps to find out what companies have a history of remote work and seek jobs with them or work with a known employment service that contracts you out.
Avoid anything that requires you to pay to get the job.
I can’t stress this enough, if it’s not from a company ask for e-transfers, and part of the money up front.