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When you're job hunting, an offer that looks too good to be true can feel like a lucky break. Unfortunately, job scams are common, and remote roles are a favorite target. Scammers use fake job posts to collect personal information, steal money, or get people to unknowingly move stolen funds.
The good news: most scams share the same warning signs. Here's how to protect yourself.
7 red flags of a fake job posting
You're asked to pay. Real employers don't charge for training, equipment, background checks or "starter kits."
The interview is only by text or chat app. Legitimate employers usually talk to you by phone or video, or in person.
They want sensitive information too early. Your Social Security number or bank details belong in onboarding paperwork after a real offer, not in an application or first message.
The pay doesn't match the job. $40+ an hour for simple, no-experience remote work is a classic lure.
The offer comes instantly. A job offer with no real interview is a major warning sign.
The company is hard to verify. No website, a brand-new website, or an email from a free account (like @gmail.com) instead of the company's domain.
You're asked to deposit a check or forward money. Fake check and "payment processing" scams can leave you owing the bank.
How to check a job before you apply
Search the company name plus "scam" or "reviews"
Visit the company's official website and look for the job on its careers page
Check the email domain: it should match the company's website
Look up the recruiter on LinkedIn and confirm they work there
Trust your gut: if something feels off, it probably is
What to do if you think you've been targeted
Stop responding and don't send money or personal information
If you shared bank details, contact your bank right away
Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
If you've shared your Social Security number, visit IdentityTheft.gov for next steps
Report the listing to the job site where you found it
Where to find real jobs
On Recruit & Employ, we refresh listings daily, remove expired jobs, and take down anything that looks suspicious. If you ever see a listing that doesn't seem right, email us at customersuccess@recruitandemploy.com and we'll review it.
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