Working from home is here to stay. Unfortunately, so are scams that take advantage of it. With promises of high salaries and easy work, these scams are designed to drain your bank account or steal your identity. That’s not to say there aren’t legitimate opportunities to work at home. But you have to do your research and know how to spot the scams masquerading as opportunities. Here are several things that may indicate a work-from-home scam:
A Lot of Money for A Little Work
The old adage – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is – definitely applies to work-from-home scams. If an ad promises you’ll “make thousands of dollars a month in your spare time,” pass it by and keep on looking.
You Have to Pay for Training or Equipment
If the employer presents you with an “opportunity” that involves you paying for equipment and/or training up front, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. Legitimate employers will provide you with the tools and training you need at no cost.
Unsolicited Job Offers
If you receive a job offer for a work-from-home position you haven’t applied for, think twice about responding. Chances are it’s a phishing scam designed to get you to hand over personal employment data.
High-Pressure Timelines
When it comes to work-from-home jobs, the words “limited time offer” should raise a red flag. If an employer is pressuring you to make an immediate decision, they’re hoping you won’t spend any time learning more. There’s a good chance it’s probably not a legitimate opportunity.
Reluctance to Answer Questions
If a prospective employer is unwilling to answer your questions or offers vague responses with little detail, end the discussion and move on. A legitimate business will have no problem answering questions and offering as much information as you need to make a decision.
Before agreeing to any work-from-home opportunity, research the company with your local Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General. Then, if you think you’ve spotted or been the victim of a work-from-home scam, contact the Federal Trade Commission.