How to spot a job scam

Most employers are honest. But scammers target people looking for work. Here's what to watch for.

Walk away if they…

Ask you to pay for training, a starter kit, equipment, a background check, or "processing".
Send you a check and ask you to deposit it and send some of the money back, or buy gift cards.
Want gift cards, Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, wire transfers, or crypto for anything.
Ask for your Social Security number or bank details before you've been hired and met someone.
Only want to talk by text or a chat app like Telegram or WhatsApp, and never meet or call.
Offer pay that seems too good for little work, or hire you without an interview.

Look up the company. Call a number you find yourself, not just the one they gave you.
For in-person interviews, meet at the business during work hours.
Real employers ask for your SSN on hiring paperwork (like a W-4 and I-9) after you're hired.

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